Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then Sausage Potato Soup is just what you need. This recipe has been a family favorite for years. It’s rich, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when friends and family gather around the table. The combination of Italian sausage, baby potatoes, and fresh veggies simmered in a creamy broth is simply irresistible!

What I love most about this Sausage Potato Soup is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful soup ready in no time.
• Family-friendly flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and rich taste of this comforting soup.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep!
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish will keep everyone satisfied.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a casual gathering with friends, this soup fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Sausage Potato Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what to gather:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (or 3/4 cup each: diced carrots, celery, and yellow onion)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

For the Creamy Broth

• 4 cups chopped baby gold potatoes (no need to peel)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 4 cups chicken stock (or broth)

For Thickening and Creaminess

• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Final Touches

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving, optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some chopped kale or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavors.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about a minute before crumbling it with a wooden spoon. Cooking until deeply browned not only enhances flavor but also gives your soup that hearty richness we all love. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add your mirepoix—a delightful mix of carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté for 5–7 minutes until they soften. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen! Don’t forget to add minced garlic at the end and cook it briefly; this unlocks its wonderful flavor.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock

Stir in those lovely chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender—this is when all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

While your potatoes cook away happily, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in another medium pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour until golden—this creates your roux! Slowly whisk in milk until smooth; continue cooking until thickened slightly. Finally, stir in heavy cream for an indulgent touch before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything!

Once your veggies are tender, gently stir in that creamy mixture from earlier into your soup base. Turn off the heat and gradually add shredded cheese—this is where magic happens as it melts into gooey perfection! Finish by stirring in sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess before bringing back that delicious sausage.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Creation

Ladle out generous portions of your Sausage Potato Soup into bowls while it’s warm. If you’re feeling indulgent (who’s judging?), serve with hearty buttered bread on the side! Enjoy every sip while basking in compliments from family and friends—it’s that good!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making a comforting bowl of Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your recipe to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage enhance the flavor of the soup significantly. Fresh produce brings vibrant colors and nutrients, while good sausage adds depth and richness.

• Customize your veggies – Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. This not only boosts nutrition but also allows you to tailor the soup to your taste preferences.

• Adjust the creaminess – If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or use a lower-fat milk option. This way, you can enjoy the creamy texture without feeling too heavy.

• Make it ahead of time – Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare your soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

• Freeze leftovers – If you have extra soup, don’t hesitate to freeze it! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It makes for an easy meal on busy days!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance its heartiness. Here are some suggestions to make your meal even more special!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Cracked black pepper – A dash right before serving gives a hint of spice that complements the creamy texture beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – While we use Cheddar in the soup, a little grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread – Perfect for dipping into the soup, this classic side adds a comforting touch.
• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Garlic knots – These warm, buttery treats are excellent for sopping up every last drop of your delicious soup!
• Roasted vegetables – A side of roasted zucchini or Brussels sprouts offers a tasty contrast with their slight crispiness and caramelized flavors.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Sausage Potato Soup with these delightful garnishes and sides for a complete and satisfying meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label each container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup.

Can I use turkey sausage in this Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative and will still provide that delicious savory flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would with Italian sausage.

What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken stock for my Sausage Potato Soup?

If you don’t have chicken stock on hand, vegetable broth works wonderfully as a substitute. It will keep your soup rich and flavorful without sacrificing taste.

Can I add other vegetables to this Sausage Potato Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other veggies like kale, spinach, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed based on their texture.

How do I make this Sausage Potato Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, you can swap out milk and cream for coconut milk or any plant-based milk of your choice. Use dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version!

Is this Sausage Potato Soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This Sausage Potato Soup stores well and tastes even better after sitting for a day. It’s perfect for prepping ahead of time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Sausage Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends on chilly evenings. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or hosting a gathering, this recipe brings warmth and smiles all around. Happy cooking!