Sausage potato soup is a hearty, comforting dish made with sausage, potatoes, and a flavorful broth. It’s a popular meal, perfect for cooler months when you crave something warm and filling. The blend of savory sausage and tender potatoes creates a satisfying balance of flavors that is sure to please the whole family.
This soup can be customized with ingredients like onions, garlic, and cream to add richness and depth. Often served with crusty bread, sausage potato soup is easy to prepare and makes for a great weeknight dinner. It’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a delicious, one-pot meal.
Sausage potato soup typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to prepare. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the potato chunks and the type of sausage used. With its quick cook time, it’s a great option for busy nights when you need a filling meal in a short amount of time.
For best results, allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes once all ingredients are combined. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the potatoes are fully cooked and tender.
The combination of sausage and potatoes in this soup is both simple and delicious. The key to a great sausage potato soup is finding the right sausage with just the right amount of spice and seasoning. Adding some cream or milk makes the broth extra rich, and the potatoes soak up the flavors, making every bite comforting. This soup is one that is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you from the inside out.
Why You’ll Love It Sausage Potato Soup
- Simple Ingredients: This sausage potato soup is made with easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With sausage, potatoes, and a few seasonings, it’s both flavorful and affordable.
- Comforting and Filling: The creamy texture of the soup makes it so comforting, and the hearty potatoes make it filling. It’s perfect for cold days when you need something warm and satisfying to eat.
- One-Pot Meal: This recipe is super convenient because it’s a one-pot meal. You can cook everything in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious soup!
Ingredient Notes for Sausage Potato Soup
- Italian Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor with a bit of spice. Use either mild or hot, depending on your preference. Ground sausage works best for this soup.
- Potatoes: Choose russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture. They absorb the flavors of the broth and soften nicely when cooked.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the soup. Yellow or white onions are ideal for a mild flavor, but red onion can add a bit more sharpness if preferred.
- Garlic: A key ingredient for depth of flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are best, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth gives a richer taste, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter or vegetarian version. Both provide a savory foundation for the soup.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy, rich texture to balance the savory and spicy elements of the sausage. For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used.
- Dried Thyme: A fragrant herb that brings earthy flavor. It pairs perfectly with the sausage and potatoes, adding warmth and depth to the soup.
- Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color to the soup. You can adjust the amount based on your desired spice level.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, but be careful with salt if using store-bought broth, as it may already contain sodium.
Sausage Potato Soup Variation
If you want to switch up the flavor of your sausage potato soup, consider adding other vegetables such as carrots or celery. You can also use a combination of potatoes for different textures, like russet and sweet potatoes. For a spicier version, try adding red pepper flakes or hot sausage.
How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup
Sausage potato soup is best served hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side. The bread helps soak up the creamy broth, making each bite more satisfying. You can also top the soup with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
Storing & Reheating Sausage Potato Soup
When storing leftover sausage potato soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any air from spoiling the soup.
For longer storage, you can freeze sausage potato soup. Use a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat sausage potato soup, use the stovetop for the best results. Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the soup heats evenly. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute for even heating.
FAQs About Sausage Potato Soup
How long does it take to make sausage potato soup?
Sausage potato soup typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare. The cooking time depends on how long you simmer the soup to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I use any type of sausage for sausage potato soup?
Yes, you can use various types of sausage, such as Italian, breakfast, or smoked sausage. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to match the flavor profile of the sausage you choose.
Can sausage potato soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze sausage potato soup for later use. Just let it cool before placing it in an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months.
How can I make sausage potato soup healthier?
To make sausage potato soup healthier, you can use leaner sausage or turkey sausage and reduce the amount of cream. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or spinach to boost the nutrition.
Easy Italian Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Method
- Cook the Sausage: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything to combine.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Cream: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the heavy cream and stir. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or thyme if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes