Potato soup is one of those comfort foods that can instantly warm you up, no matter the season. It’s the type of dish that takes you back to your childhood or offers that comforting embrace when you’re feeling under the weather. But when you add smoked sausage to the mix, it transforms from a simple, hearty bowl of soup into a rich, flavorful meal that is deeply satisfying.
Today, we’re diving into a fantastic recipe for Potato Soup with Smoked Sausage that’s both creamy and full of flavor. It’s simple, packed with texture, and incredibly filling. Plus, it’s one of those dishes you can easily tweak to fit your own preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting into cooking, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and pros alike.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Potato Soup With Smoked Sausage Recipe
This dish brings together the soft, creamy texture of potatoes with the bold, smoky flavor of sausage. The soup is well-balanced, with the richness of the sausage cutting through the creaminess of the potatoes and broth. And it all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to bring this delicious soup to life. Most of the ingredients are simple, pantry staples, with a few additions that elevate the flavor.
- Potatoes (4 large, russet or Yukon Gold) – The base of the soup, providing that signature creaminess and texture.
- Smoked sausage (12 oz) – The smoky, flavorful addition that makes this soup irresistible.
- Onion (1 medium) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Celery (2 stalks) – For that lovely crunch and fresh taste.
- Carrot (1 large) – A touch of sweetness and color to brighten the soup.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Aromatic and adds a punch of flavor.
- Chicken broth (4 cups) – For a rich base. You can substitute with vegetable broth if preferred.
- Heavy cream (1 cup) – This gives the soup its creamy, velvety texture. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing and adding a bit of smoothness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Fresh thyme (optional, 1 tbsp) – A bit of herby freshness to balance out the richness.
- Cheddar cheese (optional, shredded) – For extra indulgence. Cheese makes everything better, right?
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the steps. Don’t worry, this recipe is simple and straightforward, yet delivers big on flavor.
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. You can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic feel.
- Slice the smoked sausage into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- Dice the onion, celery, and carrot into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
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Sauté The Veggies
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Brown The Sausage
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it gets a nice golden-brown color and releases its smoky flavor.
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Add The Potatoes And Broth
- Toss in the cubed potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together, making sure the potatoes are submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend The Soup (optional For Creaminess)
- Once the potatoes are soft, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks of potato for a hearty bite. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend it, and return it to the pot.
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Finish The Soup
- Stir in the heavy cream for that rich, creamy finish.
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, top with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture.
Ingredient Insights
- Smoked sausage: Smoked sausage is key to this recipe. Its deep, smoky flavor permeates the broth, adding richness to the otherwise simple ingredients. You can use kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the most common for mashed potato-based soups because they break down and become super creamy. However, Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better, which can add a different texture if you prefer more potato chunks in your soup.
- Heavy cream vs. half-and-half: Heavy cream gives the soup a luxurious texture, but if you’re aiming to make a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half. The soup won’t be as rich, but it will still be tasty.
- Fresh thyme: While not mandatory, fresh thyme can add an extra layer of earthy, herbal flavor that balances out the richness of the sausage and cream. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works too-just use half the amount.
Expert Tips
- Sausage options: Try experimenting with different types of smoked sausage. Andouille sausage will give the soup a spicier kick, while a milder sausage like Polish kielbasa is perfect if you prefer less heat.
- Make it ahead: Potato soup actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. Make it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot with a potato masher instead of blending. This gives the soup more body without losing the potato chunks.
- Garnish ideas: Consider adding crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chives as garnishes for extra flavor and texture.
- Add veggies: You can sneak in additional vegetables like leeks, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor without compromising the soul-satisfying essence of the dish.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some ideas to put your own spin on this comforting potato soup:
- Spicy version: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup some heat.
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add in more hearty vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini.
- Cheesy: Stir in more cheese-think sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère. Cheese lovers will appreciate the extra gooeyness!
- Potato-Free: For a low-carb version, swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets. They will soften similarly and create a creamy base when pureed.
Final Words
This Potato Soup with Smoked Sausage is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings people together around the table. It’s so customizable, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy dinner or even a gathering with friends. The balance of creamy, smoky, and savory flavors is what makes this soup so addictive.
And whether you follow the recipe to the letter or make your own modifications, the result is sure to be delicious every time. You’ll find yourself craving a second bowl (or a third)!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Potato Soup With Smoked Sausage?
To make potato soup with smoked sausage, you will need potatoes, smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), onion, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream or milk, butter, salt, pepper, and optional toppings like shredded cheese or chopped green onions.
Can I Use Any Type Of Smoked Sausage For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of smoked sausage for this recipe. Kielbasa, Andouille, or even a smoked turkey sausage work well, depending on your preference for flavor and spice.
How Do I Prepare The Potatoes For The Soup?
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. It’s important to cut them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. You can leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic texture.
Should I Cook The Smoked Sausage Before Adding It To The Soup?
Yes, you should brown the smoked sausage in a pan before adding it to the soup. This helps to release the sausage’s flavors and adds a rich depth to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, potato soup with smoked sausage can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Freeze Potato Soup With Smoked Sausage?
Yes, you can freeze potato soup with smoked sausage. However, be aware that dairy-based soups like this one may change in texture once frozen and reheated. For best results, freeze the soup without the cream, and add it after reheating.
What Can I Serve With Potato Soup With Smoked Sausage?
Potato soup with smoked sausage pairs well with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich soup well.
How Can I Thicken The Soup If It’s Too Thin?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or use a hand blender to puree a portion of the soup. Alternatively, you can make a roux by combining flour and butter and stirring it into the soup.
Can I Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make potato soup with smoked sausage in a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients except for the cream and sausage, and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Brown the sausage separately and add it during the last 30 minutes, then stir in the cream just before serving.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
To add more spice to the soup, you can use a spicier sausage, like Andouille, or add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the soup. You can also serve it with hot sauce for an extra kick.