Hearty Sausage Potato Soup Recipe for Winter Comfort

If you’re looking for a tasty and simple meal, sausage potato soup is a great choice. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and easy to make with a few basic ingredients. Whether you want something warm for a chilly night or a meal that the whole family will enjoy, this soup fits the bill.

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The best sausage potato soup recipe combines hearty sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, seasoned broth for a comforting and delicious dish you can make in under 30 minutes. You can cook it all in one pot, and it works well with mild or spicy sausage, making it easy to customize to your taste.

This soup also gives you room to add your favorite veggies or cheese to make it even better. Keep reading to find a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners at home.

How to Make the Best Sausage Potato Soup

You’ll need the right ingredients, cooking steps, and sausage choice to make a tasty sausage potato soup. Paying attention to the way you cook and add creaminess will help you get the best flavor and texture.

Essential Ingredients for Success

Start with Italian sausage for a good mix of spice and flavor. Use baby potatoes because they stay tender without falling apart during cooking.

Include onions, celery, and carrots, often called mirepoix, for a flavorful base. Garlic adds a nice punch, so don’t skip it.

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Add chicken broth to keep your soup rich. Corn or kale are optional but give a fresh texture.

Finish with sharp cheddar cheese to melt in at the end for a creamy touch. Salt and pepper adjust the taste to your liking.

Sausage Potato Soup

Ingredients

1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Start by browning the sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain most of it, leaving a little for flavor. Add the onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic for about 30 seconds.

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Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the cream and chopped kale or spinach, simmering just until the greens wilt. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with Parmesan on top and crusty bread on the side.

Choosing the Right Sausage

Italian sausage works best because of its balanced spices. You can choose hot or mild, depending on how much heat you like.

Avoid pre-cooked or heavily smoked sausage to keep the taste fresh.

Ground sausage or sliced kielbasa also work but vary texture and flavor. Fresh sausage gives you more control over seasoning.

Make sure the sausage has good quality meat with visible herbs or spices for a punch of flavor.

Tips for Creamy and Flavorful Soup

For creaminess, add cheese little by little and stir well so it melts smoothly.

You can also use a splash of milk or cream if you want a softer texture.

Be patient when browning your sausage and veggies; this step builds a strong flavor base.

If the soup is too thick, thin it with a bit more broth or water.

Taste and adjust seasoning last, so you don’t overdo salt or pepper early in cooking.

Serving and Storing Sausage Potato Soup

Serving sausage potato soup can be even more enjoyable with the right toppings and side dishes. Storing it properly ensures you can enjoy leftovers without losing flavor or texture.

Creative Garnishes and Toppings

Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives to brighten up your soup. A sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, melts nicely on top. For extra crunch, try crispy bacon bits or toasted croutons.

A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang. If you like spice, crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce works well. These simple toppings make your soup more flavorful and enjoyable with every bite.

Perfect Side Dishes

Serve your soup with something to soak up the broth. Warm crusty bread, like a baguette or sourdough, works perfectly. You can also serve it with garlic bread for extra flavor.

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast. If you want a heartier meal, a grilled cheese sandwich pairs well. Pick side dishes that complement the soup’s creamy texture and rich sausage flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing. Use airtight containers and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze your soup for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between to heat evenly. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much after storing.

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