Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the savory aroma of sizzling sausage mingled with the earthy scent of thyme, instantly transporting me to those chilly autumn evenings. This Hearty Sausage Potato Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or a quick weeknight meal. With its uncomplicated one-pot preparation, you’ll savor every creamy spoonful without the hassle of multiple dishes to clean. Plus, it’s easily customizable—whether you want to add a splash of cream or toss in some leftover veggies, this comforting dish adapts beautifully. Ready to warm up your kitchen and your heart? Let’s dive into this soul-soothing soup that promises to become a staple in your home. Why is Sausage Potato Soup So Comforting? Comforting flavors: The delightful combination of savory sausage and creamy potatoes creates a nurturing vibe that warms you from the inside out. One-pot ease: Enjoy less mess in the kitchen—this recipe only requires one pot, making clean-up a breeze! Endless customization: Feel free to experiment! Add your favorite veggies or switch up the sausage type for a personal twist. Family favorite: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, just like our Sticky Chicken Rice or Beef Stroganoff Cozy recipes. Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch, refrigerate, or freeze for nutritious, hearty meals all week long! Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Olive Oil – Essential for cooking the sausage and aromatics; can substitute with canola oil if preferred. • Italian Sausage – Provides a flavorful base; swap for breakfast or smoked sausage for variations. • Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor. • Garlic – Enhances the overall aroma and flavor; fresh or powdered garlic work well. • Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) – Creates a creamy texture; consider using cauliflower for fewer carbs. • Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base; vegetable broth makes a great option for a vegetarian version. For the Creamy Finish • Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Adds richness and creaminess; whole milk can substitute for a lighter option. • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional) – Introduces an extra layer of flavor; can be omitted for a dairy-free version. For Seasoning • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance flavor; adjust to taste based on dietary needs. • Dried Thyme or Italian Seasoning – Imparts aromatic notes; consider fresh herbs for added flavor. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley or Green Onions – Provides a fresh finishing touch; swap for chives or cilantro if desired. This classic Sausage Potato Soup recipe is the perfect one-pot meal you’re looking for, promising comfort in every delicious spoonful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Sausage Potato Soup Step 1: Brown the Sausage In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6–8 minutes or until the sausage is nicely browned and has released its flavorful oils. This will create a savory base for your cozy sausage potato soup. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics Add one diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This aromatic blend will fill your kitchen with warmth and set the stage for the comforting flavors of the soup. Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth Stir in 4 cups of diced potatoes, mixing them well with the sausage and onion mixture. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Increase the heat to bring the mix to a rolling boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Cheese Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, avoiding a boil, for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts completely. This creates the rich, creamy texture that defines your hearty sausage potato soup. Step 5: Serve Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing each with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a burst of color. Pair your comforting bowl of sausage potato soup with crusty bread for dipping, and watch as your family gathers around the table, eager to savor this delicious homemade meal. What to Serve with Hearty Sausage Potato Soup? The warmth of this creamy, savory soup calls for comforting accompaniments that elevate your meal experience. Crusty Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping. The texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup while soaking up every delicious drop. Garlic Flatbread: Offering a lovely aromatic touch, garlic flatbread enhances the comforting vibes of the soup and is great for sharing. Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing contrast that balances the meal. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized flavors from roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts bring an earthy sweetness, complementing the savory notes of the soup. Cheese and Crackers: A plate of assorted cheeses and crunchy crackers provides a delightful snacking opportunity that’s easy to prepare yet satisfying. Apple Crisp: This warm, spiced dessert showcases the sweetness of autumn, offering a lovely contrast to the soup’s hearty flavors. Cold Brewed Iced Tea: Refreshing and subtle, iced tea complements the meal without overpowering the comforting essence of the soup. Sparkling Water with Lime: A sparkling drink brightens your palate, enhancing the soup’s richness while keeping the overall meal light and enjoyable. Hummus with Veggie Sticks: For a healthy crunch, serve hummus with fresh veggies; it adds texture to the table while align with the comforting theme. How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. This allows you to enjoy creamy sausage potato soup later in the week without losing flavor. Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but it’s best to leave out the cream. This helps prevent texture changes when reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup is too thick. Stir until heated through, ensuring a cozy warmth in every spoonful. Make-Ahead Tip: If you’re meal prepping, consider cooking the soup base without cream and cheese. Add these ingredients fresh when serving for a deliciously creamy finish. Make Ahead Options These Hearty Sausage Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to simplify their meal planning! You can brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can dice the potatoes and refrigerate them for up to 3 days (just add a little water to prevent browning). When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients in a pot with chicken broth and follow the final steps to simmer with cream and cheese. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting, delicious flavors without the evening rush! Cozy Autumn Sausage Potato Soup Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this soup your own with these delightful variations! Vegetable Boost: Add chopped kale or spinach for a nutritious twist. These greens will not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color to your dish. Spicy Kick: Stir in some crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy boost. Adding just a pinch can elevate the warmth and character of your soup! Cauliflower Swap: For a lower-carb option, substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower. This will create a creamy texture while adding a nutritious veggie without sacrificing flavor. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can brighten the flavor profile. Sprinkle them in right before serving for a touch of freshness that enhances the overall taste. Sausage Variety: Experiment with different types of sausage! Sweet Italian, spicy chorizo, or even turkey sausage can provide unique flavor profiles and texture variations. Cream Alternatives: For a lighter soup, opt for whole milk instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a creamy finish but with less richness. Chowder Style: Blend a portion of the soup until smooth, then mix it back in for a chowder-like consistency. This change makes every spoonful rich and creamy! Seasonal Twist: Add diced butternut squash for an autumnal touch. It lends a beautiful sweet note that pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage. This delicious and comforting soup is perfect alongside our Sticky Chicken Rice or Beef Stroganoff Cozy. Customize it to fit your family’s taste, and enjoy every warming spoonful! Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage to enhance the overall flavor of your soup. Don’t skimp here; it makes a difference! Customize Wisely: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or spinach, but remember that cooking times may vary. Add more delicate vegetables towards the end to keep them tender. Avoid Overcooking Potatoes: To maintain the perfect creamy texture, check the potatoes frequently after 15 minutes. Overcooked potatoes can break down too much. Mash for Thickness: For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the potatoes in the pot with a fork or potato masher. This adds natural creaminess without needing extra ingredients. Storage Tips: If planning to store leftovers, remember that soups thickened with cream may change texture when reheated. It’s best to add cream right before serving, and store the base separately if freezing. Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best potatoes for my Sausage Potato Soup? Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. Their natural buttery flavor and smooth consistency make them perfect for soups. However, if you’re looking to cut down on carbs, cauliflower is a fantastic substitute that still holds up well in this dish. What’s the best way to store leftover Sausage Potato Soup? You can refrigerate your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I often label the container with the date so I know when to enjoy it! This keeps it fresh and ready for another satisfying dinner. Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup? Yes, you can! Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but it’s best to omit the cream before freezing to prevent texture changes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove; if it’s too thick, add a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency. What if my soup turns out too thick? If you find your Sausage Potato Soup on the thick side, no worries! Just add a bit of chicken broth or water gradually until it reaches your preferred consistency. Stir well as you add to ensure it blends smoothly, creating that perfect creamy texture. Is this soup gluten-free? Absolutely! Just ensure that the chicken broth and sausage you use are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this hearty dish without any worries, making it perfect for any gathering! Can I add more vegetables to my Sausage Potato Soup? Very! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like carrots or spinach. Just be sure to add more delicate vegetables towards the end of cooking so they don’t overcook and lose their vibrant texture and flavor! Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup: Comfort in Every Delicious Spoon Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup brings comforting flavors in every spoonful, perfect for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil1 pound Italian Sausage Can swap for breakfast or smoked sausage1 medium Onion Can use shallots for a milder flavor3 cloves Garlic Fresh or powdered garlic works well4 cups Diced Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) Consider using cauliflower for fewer carbs6 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian versionFor the Creamy Finish1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with Half-and-Half or whole milk1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Optional; omit for dairy-free versionFor Seasoningto taste Salt Essential seasoningto taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Or Italian seasoning; fresh herbs can be usedFor Garnishto taste Fresh Parsley Or Green Onions, can swap for chives or cilantro Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Hearty Sausage Potato SoupBrown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces, and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned.Sauté Aromatics: Add one diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds.Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in 4 cups of diced potatoes, then pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15–20 minutes.Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Once potatoes are tender, reduce heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, simmer for 5 minutes.Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve with crusty bread for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesUse quality sausage for the best flavor. Customize with additional veggies if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
