Sausage Potato Soup

This Sausage Potato Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a weeknight meal, this soup is sure to please. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it stands out as a favorite. Enjoy it on chilly days or as a satisfying dinner option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in an hour.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of spices and creamy broth creates a flavorful experience in every spoonful.
• Versatile Cooking Methods – Cook it on the stovetop for a quick meal or use a Crock Pot for a hands-off approach.
• Family-Friendly – This dish appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Hearty Ingredients – Packed with potatoes and vegetables, this soup is filling and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, gather the essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Essential for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accuracy in ingredient amounts for the best flavor results.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried parsley, oregano, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 lb. ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• ½ cup diced carrots
• 2 ribs celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

For the Broth and Creaminess

• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Hearty Element

• 1 ¼ lbs. red potatoes (about 6 small potatoes)

Optional Topping

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by melting the butter in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add the ground Italian sausage to the pot. Break it apart with your wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Flour

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture to thicken your soup base.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquids

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add soy sauce, hot sauce, dried herbs, and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer with Potatoes

Chop the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Once cooked through, stir in heavy cream. Allow it to heat through for another 5 minutes before serving.

Now you have a delicious bowl of Sausage Potato Soup that’s sure to warm hearts! Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Sausage Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and enhances the soup’s aroma.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives bring a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the soup.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy texture.
• Bacon Bits: For those who enjoy an extra savory bite, crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled on top.

Pair with Breads

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect to enjoy with each spoonful of soup.

Serve in a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible presentation.

How to Perfect Sausage Potato Soup

To make your Sausage Potato Soup even better, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nourish the dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more spices or salt according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors, especially if using tougher veggies.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before mixing it back in.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Potato Soup

Complementing your Sausage Potato Soup with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad – A light garden salad with mixed greens balances the hearty soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers make for a filling side that pairs well.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition alongside your soup.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up every bit of creamy goodness from the soup.
5. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Cheese & Crackers – A simple cheese and cracker platter offers easy snacking while enjoying the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes people make when preparing Sausage Potato Soup and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong type of sausage: Opt for chicken, turkey, or beef sausage instead of pork. This keeps the soup flavorful while meeting dietary needs.
• Not seasoning properly: Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings throughout cooking. It’s essential for bringing out the best flavors in your soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables before adding broth enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this important step!
• Overcooking potatoes: Keep an eye on the cooking time for potatoes. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and affect the soup’s texture.
• Using low-quality broth: Choose a good quality chicken broth as it forms the base of your soup. Homemade broth is a great option if you have time.
• Neglecting garnishes: Adding fresh herbs or cheese on top can elevate your dish. Don’t miss out on this final touch for presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Sausage Potato Soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sausage Potato Soup

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sausage Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sausage Potato Soup.

Can I use different types of meat in Sausage Potato Soup?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey sausage for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make my Sausage Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, consider adding more flour or using a cornstarch slurry. You could also blend part of the soup for a creamier texture.

What vegetables work well in Sausage Potato Soup?

Carrots, celery, and even spinach or kale can be excellent additions. They add nutrition and enhance flavor.

How long does it take to cook Sausage Potato Soup?

The total cook time is about 45 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking time, making it an easy weeknight meal.

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for delicious results.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Sausage Potato Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile! Whether you want to customize it with different proteins or add extra veggies, this recipe allows you to adapt it to your tastes. Try making this hearty soup today!