Potato soup with sausage is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort on a chilly day. It’s one of those recipes that brings together humble ingredients in such a way that you can’t help but fall in love with every spoonful. Whether you’re sitting down for a cozy family dinner or prepping for a gathering, this soup strikes the perfect balance between hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The richness of the potatoes combined with the savory bite of sausage creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and hearty.
What makes this potato soup with sausage stand out is the deep, earthy flavor that comes from a mix of fresh ingredients. Add in a bit of cream, some herbs, and spices, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s not only satisfying but also deliciously rich. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, and it only takes a bit of time to come together in a pot of goodness. So, let’s dive into the details of this recipe!
Potato Soup Sausage Recipe
This recipe brings together the simplicity of potatoes with the hearty flavors of sausage. A perfect combo that gives you both texture and flavor in every bite. What’s great about this recipe is its flexibility – you can play around with the type of sausage you use, adjust the creaminess, or even load up on extra veggies to fit your taste. But no matter how you make it, the result is a deliciously comforting soup that’s hard to beat.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients Needed
To get that perfectly balanced potato soup, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need. Each one brings its own flavor, texture, or depth, so don’t skip out on any of them!
- Sausage: You can use any type of sausage, though smoked sausage or Italian sausage is a popular choice. The sausage will give the soup that rich, meaty flavor that balances well with the potatoes.
- Potatoes: For this, you’ll want something starchy, like Russet potatoes. These break down in the soup and give it that creamy, velvety texture.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, savory depth to the broth. It also gives the soup that aroma that fills your kitchen and makes you eager to dig in.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic flavor that enhances the richness of the sausage and complements the potatoes.
- Chicken broth: This serves as the base of your soup, providing a light, savory backdrop to all the ingredients.
- Heavy cream: This ingredient adds richness and creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with milk, but the heavy cream really makes the soup feel indulgent.
- Butter: Adds richness to the base of the soup. It’s perfect for sautéing the veggies and bringing out the flavors before adding the liquids.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and sausage. You can adjust these to taste.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley, thyme, or rosemary add a nice touch of fresh, herbal flavor. A little sprinkle on top before serving really elevates the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to take those ingredients and transform them into a cozy, flavorful soup. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of potato sausage soup in no time:
-
Prepare The Ingredients
- Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
- Slice your sausage into rounds, or crumble it if you prefer a finer texture.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
-
Sauté The Sausage
- In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
-
Cook The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add another tablespoon of butter if needed. Throw in the chopped onions and cook for about 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or so, stirring to prevent burning.
-
Build The Soup Base
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir everything together. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can test this by poking them with a fork – they should easily break apart.
-
Add Cream And Sausage
- Once the potatoes are cooked, return the sausage to the pot. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Season To Taste
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them in at this stage.
-
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Ingredient Insights
- Sausage: The type of sausage you choose can dramatically affect the flavor of the soup. Spicy sausage gives the soup a bit of heat, while milder varieties like Italian sausage lend a savory richness. Smoked sausages bring an earthy, smoky flavor that balances the richness of the potatoes and cream.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the go-to for this recipe because they’re starchy and break down nicely when cooked, which helps thicken the soup. If you want a chunkier soup, you can use Yukon Golds or red potatoes. They won’t break down as much, giving you a heartier texture.
- Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes this soup decadently creamy, you can always swap it for half-and-half or even full-fat milk if you want to cut back on calories. However, using cream results in a velvety texture that elevates the overall dish.
- Chicken Broth: This adds the base flavor to your soup. You can use homemade broth if you have it, but store-bought works just fine as well. Be sure to use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
Expert Tips
- Texture Matters: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup once the potatoes are tender. This will create a creamy, velvety texture. You can even blend half of it for a thick consistency while leaving some potato chunks for texture.
- Sausage Swap: For a leaner version, opt for turkey sausage or chicken sausage. These options still provide great flavor but are lower in fat.
- Herb Infusion: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary early in the cooking process, letting them simmer in the broth. This infuses the soup with a fragrant, earthy note.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, you can make this in a slow cooker. Just combine the ingredients (minus the cream) and cook on low for 6 hours. Add the cream and sausage in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep things rich and fresh.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and substitute with a plant-based sausage or even some sautéed mushrooms to give it a meaty texture. You could also add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or kale for added depth.
- Spicy Twist: If you like heat, try using chorizo sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the base. The heat from the sausage or spices adds a delightful contrast to the creamy potatoes.
- Cheesy Version: For a cheesy, indulgent twist, add shredded cheddar cheese to the soup near the end of cooking. Stir it in until it melts, making the soup even richer and more comforting.
- Smoked Sausage and Cabbage: Add cabbage for a more rustic twist. It pairs beautifully with smoked sausage, giving the soup a heartier, almost stew-like consistency.
Final Words
Potato sausage soup is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s so simple, yet every bite is loaded with flavor and texture. The richness of the potatoes and sausage combined with the creamy broth makes it an irresistible comfort food. What’s more, it’s versatile enough to play around with depending on what you’ve got on hand or your dietary preferences.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a batch to enjoy over the week, this soup will never disappoint. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a meal shared with friends.
FAQs
What Type Of Sausage Is Best For Potato Soup?
For potato soup, mild or spicy Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or Kielbasa are popular choices. The sausage should be flavorful but not overpowering, complementing the potatoes and broth.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes In Potato Soup With Sausage?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes, but be aware that they may break down faster during cooking. It’s best to thaw them slightly and cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes For Potato Soup With Sausage?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. If you prefer a heartier texture and more rustic look, leaving the skin on can add additional nutrients and color to the soup.
What Type Of Broth Should I Use For Potato Soup With Sausage?
Chicken or vegetable broth is commonly used for potato soup, as it provides a mild base that lets the sausage and potatoes shine. Some recipes may call for a combination of both chicken broth and milk or cream for a creamy texture.
How Can I Make Potato Soup With Sausage Gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, ensure the sausage does not contain any fillers with gluten. You can also use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup if necessary.
Can I Add Dairy To My Potato Soup With Sausage?
Yes, adding dairy like heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk will make the soup creamy and rich. Some recipes call for sour cream or cream cheese for added tang and texture.
How Do I Thicken Potato Soup With Sausage?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, use a potato masher, or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can add a roux or cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
Can I Prepare Potato Soup With Sausage In Advance?
Yes, potato soup can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors meld together better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What Vegetables Can I Add To Potato Soup With Sausage?
Common additions include onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and leeks. These vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, creating a more balanced and hearty dish.
How Long Should I Cook The Potato Soup With Sausage?
The total cooking time will depend on the size of your potato cubes and the type of sausage used. Typically, the soup should simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have fully developed. If using pre-cooked sausage, it may only need to be heated through.