A sudden chill in the air transforms my kitchen into a haven, where delicious aromas swirl and embrace the space. On nights like these, I turn to the ultimate comfort food: Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. This delightful dish features savory Italian sausage, tender baby potatoes, and vibrant veggies mingling in a velvety, creamy broth. Not only is it a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth, but it also comes together quickly—just 55 minutes from start to finish—perfect for when you’re craving indulgence without the fuss. Adaptable to various diets, this soup allows for lighter options like turkey sausage or a vegetarian twist, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty bowl of goodness. Want to know how to recreate this comforting hug in a bowl? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup just right for you?
Quick Preparation: With only 55 minutes needed, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Comfort: The savory Italian sausage and creamy base create a rich flavor that warms your soul and satisfies cravings.
Versatile: This soup is easily adaptable; swap in turkey sausage or a vegetarian option, ensuring it’s perfect for any diet.
Perfect Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a garden salad to elevate your dining experience; a true comfort feast!
Crowd-pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, everyone will love this delicious, warm dish. You can even explore other comforting recipes like Baked Potato Soup or Cheesy Mashed Potato for more cozy vibes!
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Italian Sausage – Adds savory flavor and richness; swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and aids in sautéing vegetables; can be reduced for a lighter dish.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; any cooking oil can be substituted based on your preference.
• Mirepoix (Carrots, Celery, Onion) – The base flavor for the soup; fresh vegetables are preferred, but frozen can work in a pinch.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; use fresh for the best results.
• Chopped Baby Gold Potatoes – Contributes creaminess and texture with no peeling required for added convenience.
• Dried Parsley & Dried Basil – Adds herbal notes; fresh herbs can create a more vibrant taste.
• Chicken Stock/Broth – Provides the soup’s base flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Flour – Thickens the soup; a gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.
• Milk – Integrates a creamy texture; whole, 2%, or 1% milk can be used interchangeably.
• Heavy Cream – Enhances creaminess; omit it for a lighter soup.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Extra-sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides intense flavor and creaminess; opt for other cheeses like Gruyère for variety.
• Sour Cream – Optional garnish adding creaminess and tang; can be skipped if desired.
• Hearty Buttered Bread – Ideal for dipping and best served alongside the soup.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot over medium-high heat, add crumbled Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fragrant. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat to keep the soup from being too greasy, then set the sausage aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic, making sure not to let it burn.
Step 3: Cook Potatoes
Next, incorporate the chopped baby gold potatoes into the pot along with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and heated thoroughly.
Step 4: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the baby potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully into your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
Step 5: Make Creamy Base
In a separate smaller pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring a smooth consistency, and heat until thickened; then stir in heavy cream to make the base extra creamy.
Step 6: Combine
Carefully mix the creamy base into the soup, stirring to combine everything evenly. Add the previously browned sausage back into the pot along with shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely while adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed for your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the rich and comforting soup into bowls while it’s warm, optionally topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream if desired. For a complete meal, serve with hearty buttered bread on the side, perfect for dipping into the luscious broth!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow the soup to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the creamy sausage potato soup in safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top to accommodate expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When reheating, do so on low heat, stirring gently to keep the creaminess intact. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup is too thick after freezing.
Serving Reminder: This delicious soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld, making it perfect for meal prep!
What to Serve with Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
Craving the perfect accompaniments to elevate your creamy bowl of goodness?
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Crusty Artisan Bread: Freshly baked and slightly crispy, it’s perfect for dipping into the rich soup, soaking up all the flavorful goodness.
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Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness that balances the soup’s creaminess. Pairing textures creates a delightful contrast.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: These warm, gooey sticks are ideal for family-style meals. They offer a fun, interactive way to enjoy every last drop of your soup!
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Garlic Bread: An irresistible, buttery garlic delight that complements the savory flavors of the soup, enhancing every spoonful with its aromatic charm.
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Roasted Veggies: Tossed with olive oil and seasonal herbs, these well-charred vegetables add a satisfying crunch and nutritional punch, elevating your meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of bold red melds beautifully with the savory notes in the soup, providing a cozy dining experience full of warmth.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this sweet yet slightly tart treat rounds out your meal perfectly, balancing the savory comfort of the soup with its warm, cinnamon goodness.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sausage Potato Soup options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the baby potatoes and prepare the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the sausage and let it cool before storing it in the fridge, ready to be added when you combine everything. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just sauté the vegetables, add the prepped ingredients, and follow the remaining steps. This way, you’ll have the same comforting flavors of your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup for a silkier texture, enhancing the Creamy Sausage Potato Soup experience.
Watch the Heat: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat and stir frequently to prevent separation; nobody wants an unevenly mixed soup!
Prep Ahead: Chop your mirepoix and baby potatoes a day in advance to streamline the cooking process, making your weeknight dinner a breeze.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or smoked cheddar for varied flavors; just ensure they melt well into your soup.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process; every ingredient varies in strength, and your perfect soup is waiting!
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Creamy Sausage Potato Soup your own with delightful twists and adjustments!
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Turkey Sausage: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still delivers delicious flavor.
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Vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and replace chicken stock with vegetable broth. Add beans or lentils for protein to create a nutritious meatless version.
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Spicy Option: Elevate the heat level by stirring in crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process. Just a pinch can transform the dish into a warm, zesty delight!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of regular milk and heavy cream for a creamy, dreamy soup without the dairy.
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Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while the soup simmers. Their fragrant notes will elevate your soup to aromatic heights.
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Greens Addition: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a vibrant splash of color.
And if you’re looking for more cozy options, why not try the rich flavors of Baked Potato Soup or enjoy the creamy allure of Cheesy Mashed Potato?
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Italian sausage?
When choosing Italian sausage, look for a meat that is bright in color and has a pleasant aroma. Avoid sausages with dark spots or excessive moisture, as these can indicate spoilage. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, opt for ground turkey or chicken that’s labeled as “lean.”
How should I store leftover creamy sausage potato soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing, as trapping heat can cause condensation and spoil your soup faster. You can also portion it into smaller containers for easy reheating later!
Can I freeze creamy sausage potato soup, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze the soup, let it cool down, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
What can I do if my soup is too thick after cooking?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply whisk in a bit of milk or chicken broth over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Be sure to stir frequently to keep it creamy! If you’ve prepped ahead and find the soup thickens upon refrigerating, the same method applies after warming it up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this soup?
Yes! If you have allergies, make sure to check the labels on your sausage and any other pre-packaged ingredients. For a gluten-free or dairy-free option, you can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free blend and replace the milk and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Always keep in mind that if serving to pets, foods high in spices, fats, or certain ingredients like onions should be avoided.
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup That's Pure Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add crumbled Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fragrant. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat to keep the soup from being too greasy, then set the sausage aside in a bowl.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic, making sure not to let it burn.
- Next, incorporate the chopped baby gold potatoes into the pot along with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and heated thoroughly.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the baby potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully into your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
- In a separate smaller pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring a smooth consistency, and heat until thickened; then stir in heavy cream to make the base extra creamy.
- Carefully mix the creamy base into the soup, stirring to combine everything evenly. Add the previously browned sausage back into the pot along with shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely while adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed for your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
- Ladle the rich and comforting soup into bowls while it’s warm, optionally topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream if desired. For a complete meal, serve with hearty buttered bread on the side, perfect for dipping into the luscious broth!
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