Savory Creamy Sausage & Potato Chowder Recipe for Cozy Nights

When the weather turns chilly, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm bowl of soup. This savory creamy sausage & potato chowder is the ultimate comfort soup that will quickly become your go-to on cozy evenings. Packed with tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and a luscious creamy broth, this chowder is both hearty and satisfying.

this Recipe

You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare this sausage potato chowder, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for family dinners. Let’s dive into the recipe and get you cooking up this delicious, comforting soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy texture with a savory sausage boost for deep flavor.
• Hearty potatoes offer satisfying substance and comfort in every bite.
• Quick stovetop method perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable with optional add-ins like cheese, corn, or herbs.
• Freezes well for easy meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a rich and flavorful sausage potato chowder that serves a family or group of friends.

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 4 cups peeled and diced Yukon gold potatoes (about 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 380 per serving

How to Make Savory Creamy Sausage & Potato Chowder: The Ultimate Comfort Soup!

1. In a large pot over medium heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add the butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux that will thicken the chowder.
4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Once potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup but still leave chunks.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, warming the chowder over low heat until heated through but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat.
8. Ladle the creamy sausage potato chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

• Use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamy texture that holds its shape well.
• Remove sausage casings before cooking for even crumbles throughout the chowder.
• Don’t boil after adding cream to prevent curdling; warm gently instead.
• For extra flavor, sauté a diced celery stalk with onions before adding garlic.
• If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash more potatoes or add a bit more flour when making the roux.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or broth if the chowder has thickened too much during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage in this chowder?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap Italian sausage with breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage depending on your flavor preference. Keep in mind the seasoning differences and adjust salt and spices accordingly.

Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or any unsweetened plant-based milk, and swap butter for olive oil. The chowder will still be creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I prepare this chowder in advance?

Definitely! You can make the chowder a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve. The flavors often deepen with time.

What can I serve with sausage potato chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic rolls, or a simple green salad. For extra indulgence, top with shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits.