Sausage Potato Soup Recipe

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If you’re looking for a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, you have to try this Sausage Potato Soup. This dish brings together tender red potatoes, savory Italian sausage, and a blend of aromatic herbs, all swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of comforting textures and vibrant flavors that will make it your next go-to soup for any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list fool you: these simple, staple ingredients work in perfect harmony to create a soup that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each one adds its own special touch, from sweetness and aroma to richness and heartiness.

• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal sweetness that brightens the soup.
• ½ teaspoon each dried parsley, oregano, mustard powder: These seasonings give the broth depth and a warm, savory foundation.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Just a pinch to marry all the flavors with a gentle kick.
• 1 lb. ground Italian sausage, hot or mild: The star protein that brings bold, spiced flavor and satisfying heartiness.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: A classic base that sweetens and flavors the soup.
• ½ cup diced carrots: They bring a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
• 2 ribs celery, diced: Adds crunch and a fresh, earthy note.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Lifts the entire dish with its warm, aromatic punch.
• 3 tablespoons flour: The secret to thickening the soup into a luscious, velvety texture.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Deepens the umami flavors in the broth.
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• 5 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base for all the ingredients to mingle in.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1 ¼ lbs. red potatoes (about 6 small potatoes): Tender, bowl-friendly chunks that soak up the broth perfectly.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into the soup for an indulgent, cheesy finish.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by removing the casings if you’re using sausage links, and heat a large pot over medium. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until it’s broken apart and no longer pink, about 10 to 12 minutes. Partially cover the pot to speed cooking and stir occasionally so it browns evenly. Once cooked through, set the sausage aside, reserving a tablespoon of the drippings for extra flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the sausage drippings and butter to the pot, heating over medium. Toss in the diced onions, celery, and carrots, letting them soften for about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, cooking another minute until fragrant. This flavorful veggie base is what makes the Sausage Potato Soup so full-bodied and comforting.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Sprinkle in the flour and cook it for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw taste and create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth little by little, scraping the bottom of the pot with your spatula to capture every bit of flavor that’s stuck. Stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, hot sauce, and your dried herbs and pepper, swirling everything together into a luscious broth.

Step 4: Simmer with Potatoes

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Meanwhile, wash the red potatoes well, pat them dry, and cut them into one-inch cubes. Add the potatoes to the pot and let them cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re fork tender and perfectly soft—this step ensures every bite has the ideal texture to soak up the rich broth.

Step 5: Finish with Sausage and Cheese

Return the cooked sausage to the soup, stirring to combine. Lower the heat and gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if you want that comforting cheesy layer to melt throughout. Now your Sausage Potato Soup is ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a bright, fresh note and a pop of color. For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt blends beautifully, while crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of paprika can add a fun twist to the presentation.

Side Dishes

This soup is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A crisp green salad or steamed greens like broccoli or green beans add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Sausage Potato Soup in warmed bowls with a swirl of heavy cream on top for a beautiful marbled effect. For a rustic feel, serve it in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out sourdough rolls. Garnishing with a sprinkle of the shredded cheddar cheese just before presenting adds an irresistible gooey topping that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day. Before storing, allow the soup to cool to room temperature to preserve the creamy texture and freshness.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but for best results, skip adding the cheese before freezing. Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your Sausage Potato Soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Stir in cheese at the end if desired, allowing it to melt smoothly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and will still bring plenty of flavor to the Sausage Potato Soup. Just choose a well-seasoned variety for the best results.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. The seasonings and creamy base still make it wonderfully rich and satisfying.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the sausage and vegetables as directed, then combine all ingredients (except the cheese) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in cheese near the end before serving.

What type of potatoes work best?

Red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape while getting tender, adding a lovely texture to the soup. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used if you prefer a creamier potato within the broth.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Definitely! Use dairy-free butter and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk thickened with a little cornstarch. Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Potato Soup is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s cozy, flavorful, and satisfying—perfect for chilly nights or anytime you want a homemade meal full of love. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; your new favorite soup is just a bowl away!

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