Sausage Potato Soup
Introduction
A bowl of soup has always been more than just food. It brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of home. Among the many soups enjoyed in family kitchens, sausage potato soup holds a special place. Its rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients make it a recipe worth repeating again and again. The balance of savory sausage with tender potatoes creates a hearty dish that works well for lunch, dinner, or even as a centerpiece at a family gathering.
Cooking this soup does not require complicated techniques or fancy equipment. It is a recipe that feels approachable and rewarding for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs. Each spoonful tells a story of warmth and nourishment. The creamy broth hugs the potatoes while the sausage provides a depth of flavor that makes every bite satisfying. Once served with bread or salad on the side, it becomes a complete meal that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage (1 pound) | 750 |
| Russet potatoes (4 medium) | 520 |
| Onion (1 large) | 60 |
| Carrots (2 medium) | 50 |
| Celery stalks (2) | 20 |
| Garlic cloves (3) | 15 |
| Chicken broth (6 cups) | 90 |
| Heavy cream (1 cup) | 800 |
| Olive oil (2 tbsp) | 240 |
| Salt (1 tsp) | 0 |
| Black pepper (1 tsp) | 5 |
| Fresh parsley (2 tbsp) | 5 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: If the pot has excess fat, spoon most of it out, leaving a tablespoon for flavor. That keeps the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about five to seven minutes.
Step 4: Add minced garlic and cook for one minute while stirring so the garlic does not burn. If you use thyme or a bay leaf add it now.
Step 5: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir so it mixes with the vegetables. Add the diced potatoes and stir to combine.
Step 6: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer gently until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about twenty minutes.
Step 8: For a thicker texture mash a few potato pieces against the side of the pot with a potato masher or briefly pulse half the soup with an immersion blender. Stir to combine.
Step 9: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm the soup through slowly without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Step 10: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Optional toppings include shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or extra crispy sausage bits.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can adjust this recipe to suit your own taste and dietary needs. Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for more nutrition and color. For a richer taste, stir in some shredded cheese just before serving. If you enjoy spicier dishes, try hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes. The soup can also be made thicker by mashing a few of the potatoes directly in the pot before serving.
Nutritional Information
One serving of sausage potato soup contains approximately:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Serving Suggestions
Sausage potato soup is best served hot with freshly baked bread or crusty rolls that soak up the creamy broth. A green salad on the side provides freshness that balances the richness of the soup. You can also serve it in bread bowls for a fun presentation at gatherings. Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or even crispy bacon bits can be added for extra flavor. It is versatile enough to serve as a main meal or alongside lighter dishes.
Conclusion
Sausage potato soup offers comfort and flavor in every bowl. The combination of creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory sausage makes it both hearty and satisfying. It is easy enough to prepare on a busy evening yet special enough to serve when hosting friends or family. Once added to your recipe collection, this dish is sure to become a favorite that you will look forward to enjoying time and time again.
