This hearty sausage potato soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, creamy potatoes, and fresh veggies, it’s comforting and satisfying.
I love to make this soup on chilly days because it warms me right up. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Italian sausage adds amazing flavor, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a meatless version, some plant-based sausages work well too.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are perfect for this soup. However, you can substitute with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor. Just make sure if using sweet potatoes, check for tenderness as they cook faster.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream. Coconut milk is a great alternative for a dairy-free soup while keeping it creamy.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh parsley or dill for garnish. If you don’t have those, dry herbs like thyme or even Italian seasoning can work in a pinch.
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
Getting those potatoes just right is key to a great soup. Here’s a quick guide:
- Cut your potatoes into even-sized pieces. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t skip the simmering step! This allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften. Test them with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
- If you want to speed things up, you can parboil the potatoes in a separate pot for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the soup.
Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (about 600g) peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sausage potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant—this is what makes your kitchen smell amazing!
2. Brown the Sausage:
Now it’s time to add the ground sausage to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as you cook it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. This will add so much flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Potatoes and Spices:
Stir in the diced potatoes along with the smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together so that the potatoes get coated in all those delicious flavors.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.
5. Creamy Finish:
After the potatoes are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh herbs. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend all the flavors. If you want, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your hearty sausage potato soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls, and feel free to garnish with more fresh herbs for that pretty touch. Enjoy every cozy bite!
Warm, creamy, and packed with flavor—this sausage potato soup is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is a great choice for flavor, you can use breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a fork or a potato masher after they cook. Alternatively, you can stir in a slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and water during the simmering phase.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead! Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to freshen it up.
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with grilled cheese for a comforting meal combination!
