Sausage Potato Soup: A Creamy, Hearty Comfort in a Bowl

When the chill of the evening sets in and you’re craving comfort, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Sausage Potato Soup. This dish combines tender chunks of potato, savory Italian sausage, and a creamy, cheesy broth that wraps you up like a warm blanket. Loved by families across generations, it’s a rustic yet indulgent soup that balances protein, starch, and rich dairy in perfect harmony. Whether you call it a creamy sausage potato soup, Italian sausage potato soup, or even a hearty sausage and potato chowder, this recipe is a must-have in your kitchen rotation.

If you’ve been searching for a one-pot comfort meal, this bowlful of goodness will not only satisfy hunger but also win over the hearts of your dinner guests. Get ready to bring restaurant-quality coziness to your table with a recipe that’s simple, affordable, and unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Potato Soup

• Creamy yet balanced: Thanks to milk, cream, and melted cheddar, this soup achieves a luscious texture without becoming overly heavy.
• Savory flavor layers: Italian sausage infuses the broth with herbs and spice, while mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots) deepens the base.
• Budget-friendly: Made with humble pantry ingredients—potatoes, broth, sausage—it’s economical yet crowd-pleasing.
• Family favorite: Picky eaters, kids, and adults all find something to love in this cheesy sausage potato soup.
• Quick prep, big payoff: Ready in under an hour, yet tastes like it simmered all day.
• Versatile base: Works as a Tuscan-style sausage potato and kale soup, a cheesy one-pot stew, or a classic sausage and potato chowder depending on your spin.
• Perfect for meal prep: Stores well, reheats beautifully, and makes lunches exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to craft the ultimate Sausage Potato Soup:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot): Brings robust seasoning and meaty depth. Substitute with turkey sausage for a leaner option or chorizo for a spicy twist.
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Adds richness and helps form the creamy roux.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Boosts the fat balance when sausage doesn’t release enough grease.
• 2¼ cups mirepoix (¾ cup each of carrots, celery, onion): A classic trio that builds aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic heightens the savory notes.
• 4 cups baby gold potatoes (chopped): Thin-skinned and buttery, no peeling required. Russets can be used for a fluffier texture.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley + 1 teaspoon dried basil: Herbs that keep the broth bright and balanced.
• 4 cups chicken stock or broth: The base liquid—homemade or low-sodium store-bought recommended.
• 6 tablespoons flour: Thickens the soup, giving it body. Gluten-free flour can be swapped in.
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole): Whole milk produces the creamiest result.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Luxury in liquid form—don’t skip this step if you want indulgence.
• 1 teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon pepper: Season to taste, always adjust after adding sausage.
• 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into gooey perfection. Gruyère or Fontina work as elegant substitutes.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness at the finish.
• Optional serving: Rustic buttered bread or crusty baguette to soak up every drop.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the sausage: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the sausage for 1 minute, then break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon grease in the pot. If the pan is too dry, add olive oil.
2. Build the flavor base: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same pot. Add mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
3. Add potatoes and herbs: Stir in chopped potatoes, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Make the creamy roux: In a separate pot, melt remaining 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for 1 minute to eliminate raw flavor. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Stir in heavy cream and remove from heat.
5. Combine and finish: Add the milk mixture to the potato base. Stir in shredded cheese, a handful at a time, until melted. Mix in sour cream for tang. Return the sausage to the pot, stir, and taste for seasoning.
6. Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired, and serve hot with buttered bread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sausage Potato Soup

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Shred cheese from a block (not pre-shredded) for best melting. Add it gradually off the heat, stirring gently.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except cheese and sour cream to a slow cooker. Cook 6–7 hours on low. Stir in dairy just before serving.

How can I thicken my soup without flour?

Use cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch + 4 tablespoons water) or blend a portion of the cooked potatoes into the broth for natural creaminess.

What’s the best sausage for this soup?

Italian sausage is traditional, but smoked kielbasa, chicken sausage, or spicy chorizo all bring unique flavor profiles.

Best Ways to Serve

Pair this rustic sausage potato soup with:

• Fresh salads – Try linking to Apple Spinach Salad or Greek Chicken Salad with Tzatziki.
• Crusty breads – Homemade focaccia or garlic bread makes it hearty.
• Simple sides – Roasted vegetables or a fresh coleslaw add brightness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 25% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions up to 2 months. Reheat gently to prevent dairy from curdling.
• Reheating: Warm on stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth if it thickens.

FAQs

Can I make sausage potato soup gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of gold potatoes?
Absolutely—sweet potatoes add a naturally sweet contrast to the savory sausage.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, choose mild sausage and reduce pepper for a comforting family meal.

How do I make it lighter?
Swap whole milk for 2% and reduce cheese. Turkey sausage also cuts calories.

Can I meal-prep this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge. Add fresh cheese at reheating for best flavor.

Variations

• Tuscan Style: Stir in kale or spinach before serving for a green boost.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for bold flavor.
• Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Regional Flare: Try Cajun sausage with okra for a southern-style stew.

Conclusion

Few dishes deliver as much cozy satisfaction as Sausage Potato Soup. Creamy, hearty, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the type of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable family dinner. Whether you prefer it cheesy, rustic, or Tuscan-inspired, this soup proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort.

Print