Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to keep you and your loved ones satisfied, then Sausage Potato Soup is just the recipe you need! This creamy, cheesy soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender baby potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a ton of fuss.

This Sausage Potato Soup has become a family favorite at my house. It’s comforting enough for Sunday dinners yet simple enough for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s great for gatherings—everyone loves a bowl of this hearty goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and have leftovers ready for lunches or another dinner during the week.
• Customizable: You can easily change up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 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
• 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 the Creamy Base

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

To Finish

• 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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
• Try different cheeses: Substitute Gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in your Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute before crumbling it with a wooden spoon. Cooking it until it’s deeply browned adds great flavor to your soup. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease while leaving some behind in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add your mirepoix—diced carrots, celery, and onions—and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This step builds the flavor base of your soup!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Next, stir in those chopped baby potatoes along with dried parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Base

While your veggies are cooking away, grab another medium pot and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook while stirring constantly for about one minute—this creates a roux that thickens your soup beautifully. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep whisking until it thickens enough to gently bubble before stirring in heavy cream.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your potatoes are tender, stir that creamy mixture into your soup pot. Turn off the heat and add shredded cheese little by little while stirring gently until it’s all melted into that luscious broth. Mix in sour cream for an extra touch of richness before returning your cooked sausage back into the pot.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve this comforting Sausage Potato Soup warm with some hearty buttered bread on the side if you’d like! Enjoy every spoonful as you share this delightful meal with family or friends; they’re sure to love it just as much as we do!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is easy and rewarding, but a few tips can elevate your experience even more!

• Use high-quality sausage: Choosing a good-quality Italian sausage will enhance the flavor of your soup. Look for options that are free from fillers and preservatives for a healthier choice.
• Don’t rush the sautéing process: Take your time when cooking the mirepoix. Sautéing the carrots, celery, and onion until they’re soft and aromatic builds a strong flavor base for your soup.
• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply let it simmer longer after adding the milk and cream mixture or add a bit more flour while whisking. This allows you to customize the texture to fit your preference.
• Experiment with cheese: While extra-sharp Cheddar provides a delightful flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a twist on taste and texture.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and store it in the fridge; just be sure to heat it gently before serving, as dairy can separate if overheated.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup is all about presentation! Here are some delightful ways to make this dish shine at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for an added pop of color and freshness.
• Croutons: Adding crunchy croutons gives a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy soup.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving adds richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread: Perfect for dipping! A slice of warm buttered sourdough or rustic bread complements the creamy soup beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the meal with crispness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, provide an earthy contrast that pairs well with the richness of the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful sweetness and is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.

Enjoy creating this lovely dish! Your family will appreciate the warmth and comfort that Sausage Potato Soup brings to any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Sausage Potato Soup is not only comforting and delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your soup effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Avoid leaving the soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each session until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Potato Soup that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I use different types of sausage in Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Italian sausage, feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to your soup.

How can I make Sausage Potato Soup healthier?

To make Sausage Potato Soup healthier, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or substituting it with a low-fat option. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor!

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup without dairy?

Yes! To create a dairy-free version of Sausage Potato Soup, substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk and omit heavy cream. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Sausage Potato Soup will last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this hearty and comforting Sausage Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy dinners and makes great leftovers for lunch throughout the week. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!