Sausage Potato Soup

Sausage Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This creamy, cheesy soup combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with tender baby potatoes and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking for a cozy dinner, this dish will surely warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of Cheddar cheese and heavy cream creates a velvety texture that makes every spoonful delightful.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this hearty meal in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot sausage.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit for all ages at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Sausage Potato Soup, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup base and allows ample space for all ingredients to blend together.
• Medium pot: Useful for preparing the creamy mixture without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Essential for ensuring a smooth consistency when combining milk and flour.

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: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and let it sear for about one minute before using a wooden spoon to crumble it. Cook until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving about one tablespoon of grease in the pot. If there isn’t enough grease, add one tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for five to seven minutes (or seven to ten minutes if the veggies are larger). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional thirty seconds.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Stir in chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for fifteen to twenty minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Mixture

While potatoes cook, melt four tablespoons of butter in a separate medium pot over medium heat. Stir in flour; cook while whisking constantly for one minute. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Continue cooking until thickened slightly and gently boiling. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once vegetables are tender, stir in the milk mixture into the soup base. Turn off heat; add shredded cheese a handful at a time while stirring gently until melted. Stir in sour cream before returning sausage to the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious Sausage Potato Soup warm alongside hearty buttered bread if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Sausage Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Hearty Bread

• Buttered Baguette: A warm, buttered baguette pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, allowing you to dip and savor every bite.
• Garlic Bread: The aromatic flavors of garlic bread complement the soup’s richness, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Adding a sprinkle of fresh chives provides a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
• Parsley Garnish: A dash of freshly chopped parsley adds color and a hint of freshness to your bowl of soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the Sausage Potato Soup.

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How to Perfect Sausage Potato Soup

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

• Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. The type of sausage can greatly influence the overall taste.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the sausage develops a deeper flavor profile. Make sure it’s nicely browned before adding other ingredients.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer your soup creamier, feel free to add more heavy cream or cheese. Just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Add Your Favorite Vegetables: Customize your soup by including additional vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Potato Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish.

1. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors in the soup.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and earthy flavor make them an ideal accompaniment.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains and cheese, stuffed peppers add heartiness to your meal.
5. Caprese Salad: The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella bring brightness and acidity that balance the richness of the soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs echo the potato theme while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Potato Soup, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Not browning the sausage properly: Failing to sear the sausage can lead to a bland flavor. Ensure you cook it until it’s deeply browned for that rich taste.
• Skipping the mirepoix: This mix of carrots, celery, and onion adds depth. Don’t skip this step; a good sauté can elevate your soup.
• Ignoring potato sizes: Cutting potatoes too large can leave them undercooked. Aim for even sizes for uniform tenderness.
• Overcooking the milk mixture: If you cook the milk too long, it might curdle. Stir constantly, and cook just until thickened to maintain creaminess.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Always taste your soup before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference in flavor.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for a smooth, cheesy finish in your soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Sausage Potato Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Sausage Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Potato Soup.

How do I make my Sausage Potato Soup thicker?

You can make your Sausage Potato Soup thicker by adding more flour or using less broth during cooking. Another option is to mash some potatoes directly in the pot.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option, while keeping the flavors intact.

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

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

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding kale, spinach, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour, so it is not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its versatile nature allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this soup is sure to impress!