The wind howled outside last weekend. Rain lashed against the windows. My kids were begging for something warm, comforting, and delicious. I racked my brain. Then, it hit me: Sausage Potato Soup. It’s a classic for a reason. It’s hearty, flavorful, and uses ingredients most of us already have on hand. This isn’t your typical, bland soup. This recipe is packed with savory goodness, creamy texture, and a touch of smoky spice. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly day.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Sausage Potato Soup
Let’s be honest, soup should be more than just warm broth. This recipe delivers on flavor. Here’s what makes it special:
- Rich & Smoky Flavor: The sausage isn’t just thrown in. We brown it for incredible depth.
- Creamy Texture: A touch of cream (or a dairy-free alternative) creates a truly luxurious mouthfeel.
- Hearty & Filling: Potatoes are the star, providing substance and satisfying your hunger.
- Easy to Make: Seriously! This recipe is perfect for weeknights. It comes together in under an hour.
- Customizable: Want it spicier? More cheesy? We’ll cover all the variations!
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic Sausage Potato Soup:
- Sausage: 1 pound (450g) smoked sausage (kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite) – sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Potatoes: 2 pounds (900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes. Don’t skip the Yukon Golds; they hold their shape beautifully.
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, chopped.
- Celery: 2 stalks celery, chopped.
- Carrot: 1 large carrot, chopped (adds subtle sweetness!).
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves garlic, minced.
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups (1.4 liters) – Low sodium is preferable so you can control the salt.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free).
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (30g) – to help thicken the soup.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml).
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Salt to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Crusty bread for dipping
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make some magic? Here’s how to create this comforting Sausage Potato Soup:
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat behind. Don’t discard the fat! This is flavor gold.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the pot with the sausage fat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the soup beautifully.
- Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer with Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Return the Sausage: Stir the browned sausage back into the soup.
- Cream it Up: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk). Heat through, but do not boil.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
Now for the fun part: customizing your Sausage Potato Soup!
- Spice it Up!: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese Please!: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesier soup. Alternatively, top each bowl with a generous handful of shredded cheese.
- Make it Heartier: Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or Great Northern beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Vegetarian Variation: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to compensate for the smoky flavor from the sausage. Consider adding some smoked tofu for a protein boost.
- Thicker Soup: For an even thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a fork.
- Thinning the Soup: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup is fantastic with a side salad and crusty bread for dipping. Grilled cheese sandwiches are also a classic pairing!
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
(Please note: This is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
A Bowl of Comfort Awaits!
There you have it! A deliciously easy Sausage Potato Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredients; it’s surprisingly simple to make. The smell alone will fill your home with warmth and happiness. So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. Your family (and your taste buds) will thank you! And remember, that first spoonful? Pure comfort. Enjoy!
