Sausage Potato Soup

Sausage Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out. This creamy, cheesy soup combines hearty potatoes, savory sausage, and nutritious veggies, making it perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Delight: The combination of milk and heavy cream creates a rich, velvety broth that envelops each bite.
• Hearty Ingredients: Baby potatoes and Italian sausage provide a satisfying base that keeps you full and happy.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy this soup as a main dish or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal any night of the week.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in under an hour!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family meals, its comforting flavors appeal to all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Sausage Potato Soup efficiently, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything you need at your fingertips makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Medium pot: Great for creating the creamy mixture without crowding your other ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots and ensuring even cooking.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth consistency when combining flour with liquids.

Ingredients

Sausage Potato Soup is rich, cheesy, and comforting, with Italian sausage, baby potatoes, and veggies in a creamy broth.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot)
– 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (or 3/4 cup each: diced carrots, celery, and yellow onion)
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 4 cups chopped baby gold potatoes (no need to peel)
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 4 cups chicken stock (or broth)
– 6 tablespoons flour
– 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Hearty buttered bread (for serving, optional)

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks until browned deeply. Transfer cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving about one tablespoon of grease in the pot. If there’s not enough grease remaining, add one tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot where you cooked the sausage, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for five to seven minutes or until they soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional thirty seconds.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Stir in chopped baby gold potatoes, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in four cups of chicken stock, bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it cook for fifteen to twenty minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

While waiting on the potatoes, melt four tablespoons of butter in a separate medium pot over medium heat. Stir in six tablespoons of flour, cooking while whisking constantly for one minute. Gradually pour in three cups of milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Cook until thickened just slightly before gently boiling. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in your creamy mixture from step four into the soup pot. Turn off the heat before adding two cups of freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, mixing gently until melted. Lastly, fold in one-quarter cup of sour cream along with the cooked sausage from step one. Taste-test to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle your delicious Sausage Potato Soup into bowls while it’s still warm. Serve with hearty buttered bread if desired! Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

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

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Pairing your soup with warm, buttered bread enhances the comfort factor. This classic combination is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and color. This simple addition brightens the dish and adds an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light, crisp side salad balances the richness of the soup. Consider greens like arugula or spinach tossed with a vinaigrette to refresh your palate.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun and interactive dining experience, serve the soup in an edible bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also adds extra flavor as you enjoy the bowl afterward.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds depth and richness. It complements the flavors beautifully and gives the soup a gourmet touch.

How to Perfect Sausage Potato Soup

To ensure your Sausage Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausage make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or mash some potatoes against the pot. Alternatively, add more broth for a thinner consistency.

• Flavor Balance: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced seasoning throughout.

• Cheese Melting Technique: Add cheese gradually while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup without clumping.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Potato Soup

Complementing Sausage Potato Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall satisfaction. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while being easy to prepare.
4. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a refreshing twist alongside your hot soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains create a hearty complement that rounds out the meal.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add texture and sweetness that pairs nicely with savory soups.
7. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese make for a comforting side that everyone will enjoy.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the creaminess of the soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sausage Potato Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not browning the sausage properly can lead to a bland soup. Ensure you let the sausage sear until deeply browned to enhance the flavor.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for fork-tender potatoes while keeping them intact for texture.

• Neglecting to Stir Constantly: When adding milk and cream, it’s crucial to whisk constantly. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy broth.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a flat flavor. Always check for salt and pepper before serving.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect soup texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality extra-sharp Cheddar cheese for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sausage Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Sausage Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.

• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until heated through.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works well as a leaner alternative. It will still provide great flavor without the fat content of traditional sausage.

How do I thicken my Sausage Potato Soup?

You can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water if you prefer a thicker consistency. Stir it into the simmering soup until it thickens.

Can I add other vegetables to this Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Sausage Potato Soup lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour; however, you can substitute it with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices—make it uniquely yours!