If you are searching for a cozy and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, the Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe is just what you need. This hearty soup combines tender chunks of russet potatoes with savory Italian sausage all enveloped in a luscious creamy broth that’s bursting with flavor. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, yet comforting and rich enough to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day. Each spoonful brings together the perfect balance of creamy texture, smoky meatiness, and aromatic herbs, making it one of my all-time favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a bowl of pure comfort. Each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this soup truly special.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy) with casings removed: The star protein adds rich, savory deliciousness and a hint of spice if you opt for the hot version.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and soften the onions, enriching the soup’s flavor base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Provides hearty texture and creaminess once lightly mashed.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Gives the soup its savory liquid foundation.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety smoothness that makes the soup so indulgent.
- 1 cup whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly while maintaining richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Lends a subtle smoky undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides an earthy herbal note.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, adding tangy richness and thickness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley: Freshens and brightens each bowl just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns to evenly cook and release those savory flavors. Once the sausage is fully cooked and beautifully browned, remove any excess grease to keep the soup from being too oily. Next, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook briefly until fragrant—this step builds the aromatic foundation that will make your soup irresistible.
Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes in Broth with Seasonings
Now it’s time to add your diced russet potatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer the soup gently. Allow the potatoes to cook until fork-tender, which usually takes around 12 to 15 minutes. This stage is where the potatoes soak up the delicious broth, creating that hearty base for the soup.
Step 3: Add Cream, Milk, and Mash Potatoes
Turn the heat down to low before stirring in the heavy cream and whole milk. To get that wonderful creamy texture with a little bit of bite, take a potato masher and lightly mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. You want to thicken the soup while leaving chunks for delightful texture in every spoonful. This subtle step makes the difference between just a good soup and a memorable one.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Finish Cooking
Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts fully into a smooth, rich liquid. Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly. After that, remove the pot from heat, and your creamy potato and sausage soup is ready for serving.
How to Serve Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this comforting soup even further, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or parsley on top. These garnishes add a lovely pop of color as well as a touch of fresh, mild herbaceous flavor that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic toast to help scoop up every last bit. For a lighter contrast, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement the creamy, hearty soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or in pretty soup crocks for a special occasion. For an added indulgence, top with extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize the flavor according to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I bet the soup won’t last long), cool them completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may even deepen overnight.
Freezing
This Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture may be a little different after thawing due to the cream and potatoes.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low or medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating. Add a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use smoked sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage will add a deeper, smoky flavor to the soup. Just be mindful of the saltiness and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Using dairy-free cheese alternatives can help maintain the creamy texture.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, mash more of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add extra shredded cheddar cheese while stirring gently.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
You can brown the sausage and sauté aromatics ahead, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until potatoes are tender, stirring in cheese and cream towards the end.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
Feel free to toss in chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers when sautéing onions to enhance both nutrition and flavor without overpowering the comforting profile of the soup.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, this Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe is a beautiful blend of simplicity and heartwarming comfort. It’s easy to make but delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding your family or needing a little self-care bowl of soup, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise, once you taste it, it will earn a regular spot on your menu rotation!
Print
Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl perfect for chilly days. Featuring mild or spicy Italian sausage, tender russet potatoes, and a rich blend of cream and cheddar cheese, this soup delivers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a touch of paprika, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and ideal for a warming dinner or cozy lunch.
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Dairy and Garnishes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove excess grease if necessary to keep the soup from being oily.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: To the cooked sausage, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced potatoes along with chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and soft.
- Create Creamy Texture: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Using a potato masher, gently mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture.
- Melt Cheese and Finish: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 3 to 5 minutes so all flavors meld together. Remove from heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, creamy dish.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash more of the potatoes or add extra shredded cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute smoked sausage for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- This soup reheats well but should be warmed gently to prevent curdling.
- Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
