If you’re craving a comforting, hearty bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth enriched by fresh greens, it balances richness and freshness perfectly. Every spoonful offers layers of flavor and texture, making it a satisfying dish to share with family or cozy up with on your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this soup both approachable and utterly delicious. Each component plays a crucial role, from the sausage’s boldness to the potatoes’ comforting creaminess and the vibrant greens that add a fresh pop of color and nutrition.
- Italian sausage (1 lb): Choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference; it adds rich, savory depth.
- Potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): They give the soup its velvety texture and satisfying heartiness.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a sweet, aromatic base flavor that builds complexity.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid foundation for the soup’s rich body.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Or half-and-half for a lighter twist; creates the soup’s luscious creaminess.
- Kale or spinach (2 cups, chopped): Brings vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy note.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Optional red pepper flakes: For those who love a little extra heat and a spicy kick.
How to Make Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the Italian sausage until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Breaking it up as it cooks ensures every bite has that perfect savory bite. Once done, remove any excess fat for a lighter soup or leave a bit for more richness, depending on your taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic to the sausage drippings. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that will infuse the entire soup with a sweet, garlicky undertone.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat so the potatoes can simmer and soften perfectly, soaking up all the savory goodness around them.
Step 4: Incorporate the Greens and Cream
Once the potatoes are tender, toss in the chopped kale or spinach, letting it wilt gently into the soup. Then, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to create that irresistible silky texture. Season generously with salt and pepper, adding red pepper flakes if you want to turn up the heat.
Step 5: Final Simmer and Taste
Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning to ensure every spoonful bursts with balanced, comforting flavor.
How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh, vibrant contrast and a pop of color. For an irresistible finish, grate some sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top or add a dollop of sour cream to create an extra creamy layer.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread or warm garlic bread for dipping. A side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette can lighten the meal, balancing the soup’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls with toasted bread slices resting on the rim or alongside cute mini bread bowls for a playful touch. You can also add a drizzle of chili oil or a swirl of pesto on top to elevate the presentation and flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Sausage Potato Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, perfect for busy days when you want to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Label and date them, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or gently warm it on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during reheating to restore its silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if needed, and consider seasoning it a bit to match the Italian sausage’s bold flavors.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can make a vegetarian Sausage Potato Soup Recipe by substituting Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup flavorful and hearty.
Can I use other greens instead of kale or spinach?
Yes, feel free to experiment with greens like Swiss chard, collard greens, or even arugula. Just add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their texture and color.
What’s the best potato type to use?
Starchy potatoes like Russets work great, as they break down nicely and help thicken the soup. Yukon Golds are also excellent for a creamier texture with a buttery flavor.
How spicy is this soup if I add red pepper flakes?
The heat level depends on how many red pepper flakes you use. Start with a pinch and taste as you go—this way you can control the spice intensity to your liking without overwhelming the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of Sausage Potato Soup Recipe that comforts and delights every single time you make it. From the first savory spoonful to the last, it’s a dish that feels like home. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every satisfying bite as much as I do!
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Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Sausage Potato Soup combines spicy or mild Italian sausage with tender potatoes and a creamy broth. Packed with garlic, onions, and greens like kale or spinach, it’s a hearty, flavorful soup perfect for cozy dinners. The soup is creamy yet lightened up with half-and-half if preferred, making it an adaptable, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess fat if desired.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the cooked sausage and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the peeled and diced potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Incorporate Greens and Cream: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine well.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Allow to heat through for a few minutes, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute kale or spinach with other greens such as Swiss chard or collard greens.
- For a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Remove excess fat from sausage if you prefer a less greasy soup.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a nice spicy kick, adjust to your taste.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
