As the chill of evening settles in, there’s a delightful comfort in a steaming bowl of Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. The first spoonful transports me to cozy kitchen gatherings filled with laughter and warmth, where the rich aroma of sautéed Italian sausage mingles beautifully with tender baby potatoes and a medley of colorful vegetables. With just 30 minutes to prepare, this dish transforms even the busiest weeknight into a heartwarming culinary experience.
What’s more, it’s fully customizable—whether you favor traditional pork sausage, a lighter turkey option, or a comforting vegetarian twist, this recipe adapts to your cravings. Plus, with an easy gluten-free option, it ensures that no one at your table misses out on this creamy, dreamy delight. So, grab your pot and let’s make a nourishing meal that wraps you in warmth, bite after soothing bite!
Why will you love this Creamy Sausage Potato Soup?
Ultimate comfort in a bowl: This soup envelops you in rich flavors that evoke warmth and contentment.
Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, delight your family or guests with a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable options: Tailor the dish to your preference with turkey sausage or a vegetarian twist, ensuring everyone can dig in.
Gluten-free friendly: With easy substitutions, you can enjoy this creamy delight without worrying about dietary restrictions.
Crowd-pleaser: Its hearty nature guarantees that everyone will be coming back for seconds! Plus, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
Explore the delightful components that create the magic of this Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
For the Soup Base
- Italian sausage – Provides savory flavor and protein; turkey sausage is a lighter substitute.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness; you can replace it with olive oil for a healthier twist.
- Olive oil – Used for sautéing; can be substituted with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
- Mirepoix (diced carrots, celery, yellow onion) – Forms the aromatic base; using pre-chopped versions can save prep time.
- Minced garlic – Enhances depth of flavor; fresh or pre-minced options work well.
- Baby gold potatoes – Offer heartiness in every spoonful; red potatoes are a good alternative.
For the Seasoning
- Dried parsley – Introduces fresh herbal notes; fresh herbs can brighten the dish even more.
- Dried basil – Complements the soup’s flavor; consider using fresh basil for a vibrant touch.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for taste; adjust according to your preference.
For the Creamy Finish
- Chicken stock/broth – The comforting liquid base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
- Flour – Helps thicken the soup for a creamy texture; use gluten-free flour for gluten-free needs.
- Milk (1%, 2%, or whole) – Adds creaminess; almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free versions.
- Heavy cream – Contributes richness; swap for coconut cream if avoiding dairy.
- Extra-sharp cheddar cheese – Provides cheesy goodness; mild cheddar or dairy-free cheese works as a substitute.
- Sour cream – Adds a tangy note; for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt is fantastic.
For Serving
- Hearty buttered bread – Perfect for soaking up every delicious spoonful of soup!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
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Sear the Sausage: Begin by cooking the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté it until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier soup.
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Sauté Mirepoix: Lower the heat slightly and add unsalted butter to the pot. Once it’s melted, toss in the mirepoix (diced carrots, celery, and onion). Cook until the vegetables are tender, usually 5-10 minutes, then mix in the minced garlic for an aromatic burst lasting about 30 seconds.
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Combine Ingredients: To the pot, add the chopped baby gold potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, roughly 15-20 minutes.
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Create Creamy Base: While the soup simmers, prepare a roux in a separate saucepan. Melt a bit of butter and whisk in flour for around 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Incorporate Creamy Mixture: Pour the thickened roux into the soup pot and stir well to combine. Next, mix in the extra-sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream, then return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir to incorporate everything and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the creamy sausage potato soup into bowls and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with hearty buttered bread alongside for the ultimate comfort experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Sausage Potato Soup?
Imagine the warmth of a cozy dinner gathering, where every dish sings in harmony with the comforting flavors of your creamy bowl.
- Crusty Buttered Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh and crisp option, drizzled with a light vinaigrette, helps balance the richness while adding brightness to your meal.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and tender texture contrast delightfully with the savory sausage and potatoes, creating a colorful plate.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: This veggie side brings a nutty crunch, enhancing the soup’s flavors while keeping your meal nutritious.
- Cheesy Baked Potatoes: For a truly indulgent experience, these can serve as a hearty base that echoes the creamy richness of the soup.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red provides a lovely depth to your dinner, perfectly paired with the savory notes in your creamy sausage potato soup.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert, which complements the savory flavors with its comforting spice and crunchy topping.
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to play around and personalize this comforting soup to suit your cravings and dietary needs.
- Turkey Swap: Use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage for a leaner, yet still flavorful option.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the sausage with a mix of beans and seasonal veggies like kale for a hearty veggie version.
- Creamy Coconut: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream to create a luscious dairy-free alternative that’s packed with flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Add in some diced bell peppers or spinach for an extra layer of nutrition and vibrant color in the soup.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile, adding bright notes that enhance the overall dish.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat that perfectly complements the creaminess.
- Sweet Twist: Stir in a delicate drizzle of honey or maple syrup to bring a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
- Cheesy Variations: Consider using smoky Gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for unexpected flavor layers that delight the palate.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sausage Potato Soup components are ideal for prepping ahead to simplify your busy weeknights! You can chop the mirepoix and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can fully prepare the soup and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. Just remember to store the cheese and sour cream separately and add them right before reheating to maintain their creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the soup’s luscious creaminess. Enjoy a comforting homemade meal in no time!
Expert Tips for Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
• Chop Evenly: Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking and to enhance the overall texture of your creamy sausage potato soup.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Shred cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese for better melt quality and a creamier finish in your soup.
• Avoid Overcooking Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes while simmering; overcooked potatoes can turn mushy. Aim for fork-tender without losing shape!
• Thickening Tips: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce or consider adding a bit more roux to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Season Gradually: Adjust salt and pepper gradually at the end of cooking; it’s easier to add more than to fix an overly seasoned creamy sausage potato soup.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain the soup’s creamy texture and prevents spoilage.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this delicious soup later, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Portioning: For easy meals, consider freezing the soup in individual servings. This allows you to enjoy a quick bowl of creamy sausage potato soup anytime!
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Italian sausage for the soup?
Absolutely! Look for Italian sausage that is fresh and has a bright color and clean smell. If possible, choose sausage with visible herbs and spices for added flavor. If you decide to swap for turkey sausage, ensure it’s well-seasoned to still achieve that rich taste.
How should I store the leftovers of my creamy sausage potato soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make it watery. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop!
Can I freeze creamy sausage potato soup?
Yes, you can! Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just ensure the soup has cooled completely before adding it to the freezer. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or broth during reheating to help restore its creamy texture.
What if my potatoes become mushy when cooking?
Very common! To prevent mushy potatoes, keep an eye on them while they simmer. Cook them until they’re fork-tender but still hold their shape. If they do become mushy, you can use a potato masher to slightly mash some of them, adding a creamy texture to your soup.
Are there any dietary considerations to take into account?
Indeed! If you’re accommodating allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and broth to keep your soup gluten-free. For dairy-free options, swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based milk. Always check labels for any hidden allergens in ingredients like sausage and cheese.
Can I customize the vegetables in this creamy sausage potato soup?
Oh, absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or even beans for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, ensuring everything cooks evenly. This flexibility makes the soup adaptable to your preferences!
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup for Ultimate Comfort and Warmth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cooking the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Lower the heat and add unsalted butter to the pot. Once melted, toss in the mirepoix and cook until tender, about 5-10 minutes. Mix in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped baby gold potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt a bit of butter for the roux. Whisk in flour for 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour the thickened roux into the soup pot, stir well, then mix in cheddar cheese and sour cream. Return the browned sausage and adjust seasoning.
- Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve with hearty buttered bread.