Name: Sausage Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon dried basil; 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley; 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 1 lb ground Italian sausage (hot or mild); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium yellow onion (diced); 0.5 cup diced carrots; 2 ribs celery (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons flour; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon hot sauce; 5 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1.25 lb red potatoes (about 6 small potatoes); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Introduction to Sausage Potato Soup

Sausage Potato Soup is a heartwarming dish that evokes the cozy comfort of home-cooked meals. Imagine coming in from a chilly day to the inviting aroma of savory sausage mingling with creamy potatoes and fresh vegetables—it's the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, offering both sustenance and satisfaction.

What makes Sausage Potato Soup a cozy favorite?

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground Italian sausage and hearty potatoes creates a rich, satisfying base. You can choose between spicy or mild sausage to suit your palate, while the fresh vegetables add vibrant color and nutrients.
Versatile Preparation: Whether you prefer the stove top or Crock Pot method, this recipe fits seamlessly into any cooking style. It’s flexible enough for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Comfort Food Appeal: With its creamy texture and hearty profile, this soup isn’t just filling—it’s a nostalgic reminder of family dinners and cozy nights in. It's a bit like a hug in a bowl!

For a full recipe and more cooking tips, check out The Cozy Cookbook here.

Ingredients for Sausage Potato Soup

When you're ready to whip up a cozy bowl of Sausage Potato Soup, having the right ingredients on hand is key! Here’s what you'll need to bring this flavorful dish to life.

Essential Seasonings

1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon EACH: dried parsley, oregano, mustard powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

These seasonings elevate the dish and provide depth to the rich flavors you'll be savoring.

Soup Components

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
5 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 ¼ lbs. red potatoes (about 6 small)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

This combination of hearty ingredients will give you a warm, comforting soup that’s perfect for any day. For more tips on ingredient selections or alternative options, check out resources like Food Network or Serious Eats!

Cooking Sausage Potato Soup

There's something incredibly cozy about a warm bowl of sausage potato soup simmering on the stove. Perfect for a chilly evening, this rich and creamy soup combines flavorful sausage with hearty potatoes and vibrant veggies. In this section, I’ll guide you through the cooking process step by step, ensuring you end up with a delicious dish everyone will enjoy.

Prepare the sausage

Start by selecting your favorite Italian sausage—hot or mild, it’s entirely up to you! If you grab the links, simply remove the casings. Preheat a large pot over medium heat and crumble the sausage in, cooking it until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, which should take about 10–12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to break it up effectively. Once done, set the sausage aside, making sure to reserve about 1 tablespoon of the drippings in the pot. If you don't have enough drippings, a bit of butter works perfectly too.

Sauté the vegetables

With the sausage now resting, it’s time to add some vibrancy to the pot! Use the reserved drippings along with 2 tablespoons of butter and heat over medium. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or so to release its aromatic goodness. This step transforms your soup, infusing it with those comforting flavors.

Create the soup base

Next, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly. This helps create a roux, thickening your soup beautifully. After about 2 minutes, slowly pour in 5 cups of chicken broth in splashes while scraping the bottom of the pot with a spatula to capture every bit of flavor. Finally, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, a teaspoon of soy sauce, a splash of hot sauce, and the dried herbs you prepared earlier (basil, parsley, oregano, and pepper) to create a flavorful soup base.

Add potatoes and sausage

Now comes the heart of the sausage potato soup! Clean and chop your red potatoes into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they maintain their texture during cooking. Toss them into the pot along with the pre-cooked sausage and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let everything cook uncovered for about 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.

Stir in the cream and cheese

As a finishing touch, reduce the heat to low and gently stir in some shredded cheddar cheese. This not only adds a creamy texture but also a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the hearty soup. If you prefer, you can skip the cheese for a lighter option, but it does bring that cozy element we all crave. Ready to serve? Ladle your sausage potato soup into bowls and prepare for compliments—it’s sure to become a go-to favorite! For more mouthwatering soup recipes, don’t forget to check out some tips on enhancing your soups and browsing related articles on hearty dishes!

Variations on Sausage Potato Soup

Vegetarian Sausage Alternative

Want to enjoy a hearty sausage potato soup without the meat? No problem! You can easily substitute traditional sausage with a flavorful vegetarian sausage. Look for brands that mimic the spices and texture of Italian sausage for a rich taste. Options made from soy or seitan can also work wonders, providing that delicious savory depth. Check out your local grocery store or specialty shop for a variety of plant-based choices.

Added Vegetables for Nutrition

Amp up the nutrition in your sausage potato soup by adding extra vegetables. Spinach, kale, or even zucchini can offer a health boost while keeping the soup hearty. Don't hesitate to get creative! For instance, carrots bring a natural sweetness, while bell peppers add a delightful crunch and vivid color. Including vegetables helps make the dish even more satisfying and nutritious, ensuring you're getting those essential vitamins and minerals. For more inspiration on veggie-packed soups, check out Healthline's guide on incorporating vegetables into your meals.

Cooking Tips for Sausage Potato Soup

Pro Tips for Flavor Enhancement

Elevate your sausage potato soup by using fresh ingredients when possible. Sautéing the vegetables in the sausage drippings adds depth. Feel free to experiment! For extra zing, try adding a splash of lemon juice or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Don’t shy away from the mustard powder, hot sauce, and soy sauce—these secret ingredients work behind the scenes, enhancing the overall flavor without being overpowering. For an unexpected twist, consider stirring in a cup of frozen corn toward the end of cooking.

Storage and Reheating Considerations

This creamy delight stores beautifully! Keep your sausage potato soup in an airtight container; it’ll last for up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. Just be sure not to overcook the potatoes initially, as they may become mushy upon reheating. When ready to enjoy, ladle out your desired amount and gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Enhance leftovers with a sprinkle of fresh cheese or herbs to maintain that fresh taste!

For more tips on soup storage, check out resources like FoodSafety.gov for best practices. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Sausage Potato Soup

Optimal bread pairings

Serving your Sausage Potato Soup with the right bread can elevate the entire meal experience. Consider crusty French baguette or sourdough for a lovely texture that complements the creamy soup. A slice of garlic bread also works wonders, adding a delightful flavor contrast. If you’re looking for something heartier, try pairing with whole grain bread for a nutty taste that pairs well with the sausage and potatoes.

Garnishes for presentation

Enhancing your soup's appearance is simple and can make it more appetizing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color, while a dollop of sour cream can provide a creamy finish. For a touch of indulgence, consider adding shredded cheese or even crispy Turkey Bacon on top. These garnishes not only elevate the aesthetic but also amplify the flavor profile of your Sausage Potato Soup.

For more tips and inspiration, check out this article on food pairing.

Time Breakdown for Sausage Potato Soup

Preparation Time

This scrumptious Sausage Potato Soup requires a quick 15 minutes for preparation. During this time, you'll chop your veggies, measure out the seasonings, and get everything prepped for cooking. Having everything ready makes the cooking process feel seamless!

Cook Time

The cooking takes about 45 minutes. In this phase, you’ll be browning the sausage, sautéing the vegetables, and letting the flavors meld together in a comforting, creamy broth. It’s the perfect time to relax and catch up on your favorite podcast or enjoy a bit of downtime in the kitchen.

Total Time

In only 1 hour, you’ll have a delicious pot of Sausage Potato Soup ready to serve. This makes it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or when you have friends over. With leftovers to savor the next day, it's cooking made simple!

Feel free to explore additional resources for tips on maximizing flavor in soup recipes and discover more about the health benefits of ingredients like sausage and potatoes through the American Heart Association.

Nutritional Information for Sausage Potato Soup

Calories per Serving

Each cup of this delicious sausage potato soup contains approximately 359 calories. This makes it a hearty yet comforting option for lunch or dinner.

Important Nutrients

This savory soup is not just tasty; it's also packed with nutrients! It offers a good balance of protein from the Italian sausage, essential vitamins from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the cream. Key nutrients include:

Protein: Supports muscle health and aids in recovery.
Fiber: Found in potatoes and veggies, helps with digestion.
Calcium: Provided by the optional cheddar cheese, important for bone health.

With so much flavor and nutrition in every bowl, this sausage potato soup is an excellent choice for those busy weeknights! For more information on making healthy choices in your diet, consider checking out resources like the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

FAQs about Sausage Potato Soup

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! Sausage potato soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out Italian sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for a little kick. The richness of the soup comes from the flavors of the sausage, so don’t hesitate to explore different options to suit your taste preferences.

How do I thicken my soup if needed?

If you find your soup a bit thinner than you’d like, there are simple ways to thicken it. One effective method is to mix a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for a heartier texture while enhancing the flavor.

Can sausage potato soup be frozen?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture. For more tips on freezing soups, check out resources on food preservation practices from USDA.

Conclusion on Sausage Potato Soup

In conclusion, Sausage Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it's perfect for warming you up on chilly days. Plus, it's easy to customize! So grab your ingredients and enjoy this delicious dish with family or friends!