Introduction to Sausage Potato Soup
Why Sausage Potato Soup is a Cozy Favorite
As the chilly months roll in, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of sausage potato soup. This hearty dish is a staple in many households, perfect for bringing a sense of warmth and coziness to your dinner table. The combination of savory Italian sausage and tender baby gold potatoes creates a robust flavor profile that delights the palate.
Not only is it delicious, but it also offers versatility. Imagine gathering friends and family around on a lazy Sunday evening, serving this creamy soup alongside some crunchy, buttered bread. It's the kind of meal that invites conversation and laughter, making every moment a little more special. Plus, you'll be pleased to know that this recipe is relatively simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
For those looking for nutritional information, the soup is packed with protein and essential vitamins. By adjusting the ingredients, such as using low-fat milk or adding extra veggies, you can easily customize it to suit dietary preferences. If you’re ready to warm up your kitchen and your heart, let’s dive into the deliciousness of this sausage potato soup!
Feel free to check out some insights on the health benefits of potatoes over on Healthline.
Ingredients for Sausage Potato Soup
Essential ingredients for a hearty soup
To make a delicious sausage potato soup, you'll want to gather some essential ingredients that create a flavorful and comforting base. Start with 1 pound of Italian sausage, which can be mild or hot depending on your heat preference. You’ll also need 5 tablespoons of butter (divided), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2-¼ cups of mirepoix (a mix of diced carrots, celery, and onion). Don't forget about 4 cups of chopped baby gold potatoes; there's no need to peel them, which saves time! Key seasonings include 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Finally, have 4 cups of chicken stock (or broth) on hand to bring everything together.
Optional ingredients to customize your flavor
Want to take your sausage potato soup to the next level? Consider adding some optional ingredients to play with texture and flavor. 6 tablespoons of flour help thicken the soup, while 3 cups of milk and ½ cup of heavy cream add creaminess. For a rich and savory finish, 2 cups of freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese can’t be beat. And if you love a tangy touch, toss in ¼ cup of sour cream for that bustling flavor burst. Serve it up with buttery bread on the side for a truly hearty meal! Ready to start cooking? Let’s dive into the next steps!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Sausage Potato Soup
Cooking can be a therapeutic experience, especially when it results in a warm bowl of hearty sausage potato soup. Let’s walk through the delicious steps to make this comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Brown the Sausage
The first step in crafting your sausage potato soup is to brown the sausage, which lays the foundation of flavor.
- Heat your large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage—you can opt for mild or hot, depending on your taste preference.
- Sear for 1 minute, and then, using a wooden spoon, carefully crumble the sausage.
- Cook until deeply browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot—this will add richness to your soup.
Sauté the Mirepoix and Garlic
Now that your sausage is perfectly browned, it’s time to enhance the flavor profile.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Add your mirepoix (a mix of diced carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. This step creates a fragrant base for your soup.
- Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic towards the end and sauté for an additional 30 seconds—you want to avoid burning the garlic.
Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Next, it’s time to add the star of the show: the potatoes.
- Stir in 4 cups of chopped baby gold potatoes, along with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender—perfectly cooked potatoes make all the difference!
Make the Creamy Mixture
This is where the magic happens.
- While your potatoes are cooking, in a separate medium pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour, allowing it to cook for about a minute.
- Gradually pour in 3 cups of milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and remove it from the heat. This creamy base is what will give your soup its rich texture.
Combine and Finish the Soup
You’re almost there!
- Once your potatoes are cooked, stir in the creamy mixture to the pot with veggies and sausage.
- Turn off the heat and add 2 cups of freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring gently until it has melted beautifully.
- Finally, mix in ¼ cup of sour cream and return the sausage to the pot. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your sausage potato soup warm, perhaps with a side of buttery bread for dipping. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your hard work—nothing beats a homemade soup filled with love!
Variations on Sausage Potato Soup
Spicy Sausage Twist
Looking to give your sausage potato soup a fiery kick? Consider swapping in a spicy Italian sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. This piquant variation will warm you up on chilly nights. You can also complement the heat with some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor that works beautifully with the creaminess of the soup. For a more robust taste, try incorporating smoked paprika.
Vegetarian Version
Want to enjoy the comforting flavors of sausage potato soup without meat? You can easily create a vegetarian version! Replace sausage with plant-based meat alternatives or flavorful beans such as chickpeas or black beans. Use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock for a rich, hearty base. To boost flavor, add smoked paprika or liquid smoke. This way, you’ll still savor a delicious, hearty soup without the meat!
Explore these variations to make your sausage potato soup even more delightful!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Sausage Potato Soup
Best practices for ingredient preparation
For the sausage potato soup, start by ensuring your veggies are evenly diced. This helps them cook evenly for that perfect texture. Using fresh ingredients, like mirepoix, enhances the flavor profile significantly. If you're short on time, pre-diced mirepoix mixes are a convenient option that you can often find at local grocery stores, like Walmart.
Storing and reheating recommendations
Once you've savoringly devoured your soup, let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, your hearty soup will remain delicious for 3–4 days in the fridge. If you still have plenty, freeze portions in a freezer-safe bag; just remember to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When warming up, do so gently on the stove to maintain that rich flavor and creamy consistency!
Serving Suggestions for Sausage Potato Soup
Ideal Accompaniments for a Complete Meal
To elevate your sausage potato soup into a full meal, consider pairing it with some hearty sides. A fresh salad, like a simple mixed greens with a light vinaigrette, can add a refreshing crunch. Also, try serving your soup with a slice of toasted bread or a warm, buttery baguette for dipping. Both options are perfect for scooping up every last drop of that creamy goodness!
Creative Toppings to Enhance Flavors
Don’t be shy when it comes to toppings! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds vibrant color and a nice herbaceous note. Love a little heat? Diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can give your sausage potato soup a spicy kick. For a burst of richness, dollop on some sour cream or sprinkle extra-sharp cheddar cheese right before serving. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also create an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress!
Time Breakdown for Sausage Potato Soup
Preparation time
Preparing your ingredients is a breeze with this recipe! You'll need about 10 minutes to chop the veggies and gather everything together.
Cooking time
The magic happens in the pot with a total cooking time of around 35 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly while the potatoes become tender.
Total time
In just 45 minutes, you'll have a delicious, hearty bowl of sausage potato soup ready to enjoy! Whether it's for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this timing is a win.
For a similar comforting soup recipe, check out this creamy chicken noodle soup that can be made in about the same time.
Nutritional Facts for Sausage Potato Soup
When enjoying a comforting bowl of sausage potato soup, it's useful to know its nutritional profile to balance your meals.
Calories
A serving contains approximately 533 calories, making it a filling option for dinner.
Protein
This hearty soup packs in about 18.6 grams of protein, thanks mainly to the Italian sausage you choose, be it mild or spicy.
Sodium
With around 635 milligrams of sodium, it's advisable to monitor your intake, especially if you're watching your salt consumption. Make adjustments with low-sodium chicken stock for a healthier twist.
Feel free to explore more about the health benefits of your ingredients by checking this source for insights on protein and sodium. Balancing your nutritional needs while indulging in delicious meals is always possible!
FAQs about Sausage Potato Soup
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage brings a fantastic flavor, you can experiment with other types such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy andouille for a kick. Each option will provide a unique twist to your sausage potato soup. Just choose one that matches your taste preference!
How do I make it gluten-free?
To ensure your sausage potato soup is gluten-free, simply replace the regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Also, make sure your chicken stock is labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten ingredients.
What are some great side dishes to serve with it?
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving:
- Hearty buttered bread for dipping
- A fresh green salad to balance the richness
- Garlic breadsticks to satisfy carb cravings
These accompaniments will complement the flavors of the soup and create a delightful dining experience. Happy cooking!
Conclusion on Sausage Potato Soup
Embracing Homemade Comfort Food
In closing, sausage potato soup is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. It's simple, nourishing, and brimming with flavor, making it perfect for any night of the week. Plus, this recipe provides a wonderful opportunity to gather around the table and share warmth with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful!
Sausage Potato Soup: Hearty and Easy Comfort Food Delight
Equipment
- large pot
- medium pot
- wooden spoon
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or hot
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2.25 cups mirepoix or ¾ cup each: diced carrots, celery, and yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 4 cups chopped baby gold potatoes no need to peel
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 4 cups chicken stock or broth
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups milk 1%, 2%, or whole
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese see note 2
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Hearty buttered bread for serving, optional
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and let it sear for 1 minute, then use a wooden spoon to crumble it. Cook until sausage is deeply browned. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon grease in the pot. If there’s not enough grease, add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for 5–7 minutes (or 7–10 minutes if the veggies are larger). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Stir in chopped potatoes, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken stock, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover pot and cook for 15–20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- While potatoes cook, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a separate medium pot over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook, continuing to whisk, until the mixture thickens and gently boils. Stir in heavy cream, then remove from heat.
- Once veggies are tender, stir in the milk/cream mixture. Turn off heat and add shredded cheese, a handful at a time, stirring gently until melted. Stir in sour cream, then return the sausage to the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup warm with hearty buttered bread, if desired.
Leave a Reply