If you’re craving a cozy, hearty meal that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful, this Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines succulent Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant greens in a luscious, creamy broth that will have you coming back for seconds. The harmony of flavors and comforting textures make this soup a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you simply need a soulful bowl of goodness. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together in this Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe to create a dish full of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role in making the soup hearty, creamy, and irresistibly tasty.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, mild or spicy, casings removed): Delivers rich, savory flavor and a satisfying meaty texture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the sausage and sauté your aromatics beautifully.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic warmth that perfumes the entire soup.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Introduces a subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Diced potatoes (4 cups, Yukon gold or russet): Offer hearty substance and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Forms a flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings luxurious creaminess and smooth texture.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of earthiness and herbal brightness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Seasonings that enhance every element.
- Fresh spinach or kale (2 cups, chopped): Dazzles with color and a fresh, leafy contrast.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Sprinkles a fresh, vibrant finishing touch.
How to Make Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. Let it brown nicely, which builds flavor through caramelization. Once golden and cooked through, scoop it out with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving some of the flavorful fat in the pot for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for a quick 30 seconds until fragrant. These aromatics create the inviting base that makes this soup so delicious.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add your diced potatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften perfectly, ready to soak up all those wonderful broth flavors.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, giving the soup a comforting richness. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach or kale, letting it wilt into the hot soup for a burst of green and freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Serve Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a lively pop of color and a subtle herbal note that brightens each spoonful. You can also add a little cracked black pepper on top for an extra flavor kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic toast to sop up every last bit. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also refresh the palate and make the meal feel complete without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or use soup mugs for casual entertaining. For a fun twist, ladle it over mashed potatoes for a comforting, layered dish or top with shredded cheese for a gooey, melty finish that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your leftover Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen portions can last up to 3 months, so you can enjoy it whenever a cozy craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works great as a leaner alternative and still brings plenty of flavor to this Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe.
What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well while becoming tender, but russet potatoes also work if you prefer a softer texture.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to keep that creamy texture without dairy.
How spicy is this soup with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle, background heat. You can omit them or adjust the amount to make the soup milder or more spirited to suit your taste.
Is it okay to use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
Fresh herbs can be a wonderful addition, but use about three times the amount of fresh oregano compared to dried to get the same flavor punch.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is a true comfort food winner with its blend of rich sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy broth enhanced by fresh greens. It’s approachable, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones on any occasion. I highly encourage you to try making it soon—you might just find your new favorite soup to warm your heart and soul.
