Oh, man, talk about comfort in a bowl! When the weather gets chilly, there’s just nothing better than a big, steamy bowl of soup, right? And let me tell you, this sausage potato soup recipe is seriously where it’s AT. It’s so easy to throw together – even on a busy weeknight – and it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. My kids? They go absolutely bonkers for it! I swear, they could eat this stuff every single day. It’s become a total staple in our house. Seriously, if you’re looking for a hearty, no-fuss meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, this sausage potato soup is *definitely* it!

Why You'll Love This Sausage Potato Soup

Quick and Easy Sausage Potato Soup

Seriously, who has hours to spend making dinner? Not me! This sausage potato soup comes together so fast, it’s perfect for those crazy weeknights when you need something yummy on the table, stat! You can have a delicious meal ready in about an hour!

Hearty and Flavorful Sausage Potato Soup

This isn’t some wimpy soup, folks. We’re talking about a rich, creamy, and totally satisfying sausage potato soup that’s packed with flavor. Trust me, every spoonful is a little bit of heaven!

Comforting Sausage Potato Soup for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a chilly evening, a potluck with friends, or just a regular Tuesday, this sausage potato soup is always a hit. It’s the kind of meal that just makes everyone feel good, you know?

Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients

Okay, let’s talk ingredients! This sausage potato soup is super forgiving, but using good stuff definitely makes a difference. And hey, don’t worry if you need to make a swap or two – cooking should be fun, not stressful!

1 lb ground Italian sausage, hot or mild: I usually go for mild because the kids, but hey, if you like a kick, go for hot! Just make sure it’s good quality sausage; it makes a HUGE difference.
1 yellow onion, diced: Yellow onions are my go-to for pretty much everything. They get nice and sweet when cooked.
1/2 cup diced carrots: Adds a little sweetness and color. Plus, veggies are good for you, right?
2 ribs celery, diced: Celery is a must for that classic soup flavor. Don’t skip it!
3 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic. I mean, come on!
1 1/4 lbs. red potatoes, about 6 small potatoes: I like red potatoes because they hold their shape really well in soup. No mushy potatoes here!
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, optional: Okay, I *always* add cheese. It makes it so creamy and delicious. But hey, if you’re not a cheese person (who ARE you?! Just kidding!), feel free to leave it out.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a little bit of that Italian flavor we all love.
1/2 teaspoon EACH: dried parsley, oregano, mustard powder: Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices! They’re what give this sausage potato soup its amazing flavor. The mustard powder is my little secret weapon!
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is always best, in my opinion.
2 tablespoons butter: Gotta have that butter for richness!
3 tablespoons flour: This helps thicken the soup up. Don’t worry, you won’t taste it!
1 teaspoon soy sauce: Trust me on this one. It adds a little *umami* that you won’t believe. Seriously!
1 teaspoon hot sauce: Just a touch for a little zing! I use Frank’s RedHot, but use whatever you like.
5 cups chicken broth: I usually use low-sodium so I can control the salt.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the soup super creamy and decadent. Don’t skimp!

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! This sausage potato soup is seriously easy to make, I promise. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness in no time. Don’t worry if you mess up a little – it’s all part of the fun!

Cooking the Sausage for Sausage Potato Soup

First things first, let’s get that sausage cooked. If you’re using sausage links, go ahead and remove the casings. Then, pop your large pot on the stove over medium heat. Throw in the sausage, and start cooking it, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. You don’t need to cook it *all* the way through just yet – about halfway is good. Then, cover the pot partially and keep cooking, stirring now and then, until it’s cooked through. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once it’s done, take the sausage out and set it aside. But don’t you DARE throw away those drippings! We’re gonna use those for extra flavor – just leave about a tablespoon in the pot. Trust me on this one!

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Building the Soup Base for Sausage Potato Soup

Okay, now for the good stuff! If you don’t have enough sausage drippings, add a little butter to the pot – about 2 tablespoons should do it. Melt that butter over medium heat, then toss in your diced onions, celery, and carrots. Cook those veggies for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften up. Next, add your minced garlic and cook for another minute, until it’s nice and fragrant. Careful not to burn it! Now, sprinkle in your flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This is gonna help thicken up the soup, so don’t skip this step!

Combining Ingredients for Sausage Potato Soup

Time to make some soup! Start adding your chicken broth in splashes, scraping up all those yummy bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits are where the *flavor* is, people! Once you’ve added all the broth, slowly stir in your heavy cream, hot sauce, soy sauce, basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, and pepper. Bring the whole thing to a boil, then turn the heat down to low and let it simmer. While that’s simmering, get your potatoes ready. Just clean ’em up and chop them into 1-inch cubes. Then, toss those potatoes into the soup. Let it all simmer, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are nice and tender when you poke ’em with a fork. Finally, add the sausage back into the pot and stir it all together.

Finishing Your Sausage Potato Soup

Almost there! Turn the heat down to low, and if you’re using cheese (and you totally should be!), stir in your shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. And that’s it! Serve it up and get ready for some serious comfort food. I like to add a dollop of sour cream on top, but that’s just me. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sausage Potato Soup

Want to take your sausage potato soup from good to AMAZING? I’ve got a few little tricks up my sleeve that’ll make all the difference. These are the things I’ve learned over the years, so listen up!

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Sausage Potato Soup

Okay, potato talk! I’m a big fan of red potatoes for this sausage potato soup because they’re waxy, which means they hold their shape really well during cooking. Nobody wants mushy potatoes, am I right? But hey, if you can’t find red potatoes, Yukon Golds are a great substitute. They’re also waxy and have a nice, buttery flavor. Just steer clear of Russets – they’re too starchy and will turn to mush.

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Enhancing the Flavor of Your Sausage Potato Soup

This is where you can really get creative! Don’t underestimate the power of those little flavor boosters like mustard powder, hot sauce, and soy sauce. They might seem like weird additions, but trust me, they add a *ton* of depth to the soup without making it taste like mustard, hot sauce, or soy sauce! They just kinda make all the other flavors pop. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of corn at the end of cooking. It adds a little sweetness and texture that’s seriously delicious!

Storing and Reheating Sausage Potato Soup

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This sausage potato soup is even better the next day. Just let it cool down completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it out in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a little extra broth or water if it’s too thick. Oh! And don’t forget to give it a good stir before serving – sometimes the cream can separate a little bit when it’s reheated, but a quick stir will fix it right up!

Sausage Potato Soup Variations

Okay, so you’ve made my basic sausage potato soup, and you’re loving it. But what if you want to mix things up a little? No problem! This recipe is super versatile, and there are tons of ways to customize it to your liking. Let’s get creative!

Spicy Sausage Potato Soup

Want to kick up the heat? Easy! Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it’s simmering. Or, for a really intense kick, try using a diced jalapeño or two. Just be careful – a little goes a long way!

Creamy Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re a creaminess fanatic like I am, you can totally amp up the richness of this soup. Try adding an extra half-cup of heavy cream, or even a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to each bowl before serving. Oh! You could also blend some of the soup with an immersion blender (carefully!) before adding the cheese for an extra smooth and creamy texture.

Healthier Sausage Potato Soup

Okay, so maybe you’re trying to be a little healthier (we all have those days, right?). No problem! You can easily lighten up this sausage potato soup by using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also use milk instead of heavy cream – just be careful not to boil it, or it might curdle. And hey, load up on the veggies! Add some extra carrots, celery, or even some spinach for a boost of nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage Potato Soup

Okay, so you’ve got a big pot of amazing sausage potato soup. But what do you serve with it? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are a few of my favorite pairings that’ll take your meal to the next level.

Bread Options for Sausage Potato Soup

Let’s be real, soup and bread are a match made in heaven! I love serving this sausage potato soup with a big hunk of crusty bread for dipping. Seriously, there’s nothing better than soaking up all that flavorful broth with a piece of warm, chewy bread. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, try some soft, buttery rolls. Yum!

Salad Pairings for Sausage Potato Soup

Want to lighten things up a bit? A simple salad is the perfect complement to this hearty soup. I like a basic green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing helps cut through the richness of the soup. A Caesar salad would also be delicious! Just keep it simple and fresh, and you’re good to go.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Potato Soup

Got questions about making the best sausage potato soup ever? I got you! Here are a few of the questions I get asked all the time. Don’t be shy – if you have more, just ask in the comments!

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Slow cookers are amazing, right? To adapt this sausage potato soup for a Crock-Pot, just brown the sausage like normal, then toss it in the slow cooker with the onions, celery, carrots, garlic, broth, soy sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the potatoes during the last hour of cooking, so they don’t get mushy. Stir in the cream and cheese (if you’re using it) right before serving. Easy peasy!

Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?

Yep! Freezing is a great way to save leftovers. Let the sausage potato soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave a little room at the top, since the soup will expand as it freezes. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it out in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stove. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Give it a good stir before serving to bring it back together.

What kind of sausage is best for Sausage Potato Soup?

That’s totally up to you! I usually use mild or hot Italian sausage, but you can really use any kind of sausage you like. Smoked sausage would be delicious, or even chorizo for a little extra kick. Just make sure it’s a good quality sausage – it really makes a difference in the overall flavor of the soup!

Estimated Nutritional Information for Sausage Potato Soup

Okay, so you’re probably wondering about the nutrition stuff, right? I get it! It’s good to know what you’re eating. So, here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one serving (about 1 cup) of this sausage potato soup:

Calories: About 350
Fat: Around 25g (Saturated Fat: 15g, Unsaturated Fat: 8g, Trans Fat: 0g)
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 700mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 15g

Now, keep in mind that this is just an estimate! The actual values can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use and your portion sizes. But hey, at least it gives you a general idea, right?

Enjoy Your Homemade Sausage Potato Soup

Alright, friends, go enjoy that yummy sausage potato soup! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think! And hey, share it with your friends on social media!