If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy meal, this Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe is about to earn a place in your regular dinner rotation. Hearty potatoes, flavorful Italian sausage, and a swirl of luscious cream come together in every spoonful for the kind of bowl that makes even chilly days feel inviting. This soup is perfectly balanced—comforting yet vibrant with fresh greens and pops of cheddar—and it’s wonderfully simple to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving leftovers for lunch, this recipe promises flavor and comfort in equal measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe proves you don’t need a long list to build extraordinary flavor. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the sausage that infuses depth, to the fresh greens that add a splash of color and nutrition. Here’s what you need—and why you won’t want to skip a thing.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base and helps brown the sausage to perfect golden nibbles.
- Ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy): The soul of this soup—choose spicy for a kick, or mild for a classic, savory richness.
- Onion (diced): Softens as it cooks, lending natural sweetness and savory undertones.
- Garlic (minced): Just a few cloves boost the aroma and bring out the best in the sausage and potatoes.
- Russet potatoes (peeled and diced): These create a creamy, hearty texture and soak up every bit of that flavorful broth.
- Chicken broth: The soup’s backbone—rich and savory, it ties everything together.
- Heavy cream: Adds luxurious silkiness and helps achieve that signature “creamy” finish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for subtle sharpness and extra body.
- Dried thyme: A small amount unlocks earthy depth, making the flavors sing.
- Paprika: Gives just a hint of smokiness and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for pulling all the flavors together—don’t skip the taste test at the end!
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional): Stirred in at the end for vibrant color and a little nutrition boost; perfect if you want a dash of green.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Lifts every bowl with fresh, bright flavor!
How to Make Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the Italian sausage. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, letting the edges get golden and aromatic. This browning step unlocks incredible flavor—the perfect foundation for your soup!
Step 2: Soften the Vegetables
Once the sausage is nicely browned, add your chopped onions to the pot. Sauté these for about three to four minutes, stirring often. The goal is soft, translucent onions (not too browned), which will mellow and sweeten the soup. Now add the garlic and give everything a good stir, cooking for another 30 seconds until the kitchen smells amazing!
Step 3: Simmer Potatoes and Broth
Next, stir in your peeled and diced russet potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer. Let those potatoes soak up all the flavors for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and nearly melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Add Cream, Cheese, and Greens
When your potatoes are perfectly tender, lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re adding spinach or kale, now’s the time—simply toss it in and let it wilt for a couple more minutes. This is when your creamy potato & sausage soup recipe truly lives up to its name, becoming rich, silky, and ready to enjoy!
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Before serving, give the soup a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Then ladle generous portions into bowls and sprinkle with a shower of chopped parsley. It’s time to dig in—each spoonful is pure comfort!
How to Serve Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The easiest way to elevate every bowl of this Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe is with fresh garnishes. A handful of chopped parsley brightens the whole dish, and don’t be shy about grating a little extra cheddar on top or adding a touch of cracked black pepper for color and bite.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with a warm, crusty baguette or slices of sourdough. If you want something green, a light salad with vinaigrette is a crisp and refreshing counterpoint. Don’t forget a glass of something chilled—sparkling water, cider, or even a modest white wine will accentuate the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Ladle your Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe into rustic mugs or mini cocottes for a charming dinner party starter, or serve it in bread bowls for a memorable twist. For fun on a weeknight, set out toppings—such as extra cheese, red pepper flakes, or crumbled bacon—so everyone can make their bowl unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this soup stores easily in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors intensify overnight, making your next bowl even tastier! Just give it a quick stir before reheating to keep everything velvety smooth.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe, but keep in mind soups with dairy may separate slightly when thawed. To help prevent this, let the soup cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Give it a stir after reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of extra cream or broth if it’s too thick. You can also microwave smaller servings, but stop and stir regularly to avoid hot spots and keep that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Soup
Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives this Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe its signature depth, you can substitute with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage if that’s what you prefer.
What’s the best potato to use?
Russet potatoes break down beautifully for a creamy result, but Yukon Golds work just as well if you like a slightly buttery flavor and a firmer bite in your soup.
How do I make this soup lighter?
For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The result is still satisfyingly creamy, just a little easier on the calories.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use plant-based sausage and swap the chicken broth for a flavorful vegetable broth. This way, you’ll still enjoy the heartiness of the Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe in a completely vegetarian form.
Should I peel the potatoes?
For the creamiest texture, peeled potatoes are ideal. If you like a more rustic soup, feel free to leave the skins on—just be sure to scrub them clean before dicing.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to dig into this Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that feels both special and effortless. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or sneaking in a bowl just for yourself, each spoonful will leave you warm, satisfied, and already planning when you’ll make it again. Give it a try, and let this soup become your next comfort food favorite!
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Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a bowl of rich and hearty Creamy Potato & Sausage Soup, a comforting winter favorite that is sure to warm you up. This flavorful soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender potatoes in a creamy, cheesy broth for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and cook sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Cook onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finish the soup: Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Add spinach or kale if desired and simmer until wilted. Adjust seasoning and serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version or use plant-based cream alternatives for a dairy-free option.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
