As autumn arrives, the air gets crisp and leaves change colors. Nothing warms the soul like a hearty, comforting soup. This easy sausage and potato soup recipe is perfect for cozying up. It combines the flavors of Italian sausage, smoked kielbasa, and tender potatoes in a creamy broth.
With just a few simple ingredients and some time, you can make this delicious soup. It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you need to feed a crowd. This sausage and potato soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Hearty Sausage and Potato Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
When it gets cold outside, nothing is better than a warm bowl of homemade sausage and potato soup. It has the rich flavors of smoked sausage, soft potatoes, and greens like kale or spinach. This mix makes a creamy, tasty dish that your family will love.
Health Benefits of Homemade Soup
Homemade soups are tasty and good for you. You can pick the ingredients, making sure your family eats well. The sausage, potatoes, and greens give a meal full of protein, carbs, and nutrients.
Perfect for Cold Weather Comfort
As it gets colder, a warm bowl of sausage and potato soup is perfect. It’s filled with hearty ingredients and a creamy texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food for cold nights or family gatherings.
Budget-Friendly Meal Option
Making this soup at home is healthier and cheaper than takeout or dining out. The simple ingredients make a filling and affordable meal. It’s great for eating all week.
This sausage and potato soup is loved for its flavor, warmth, and health benefits. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. It will make your taste buds happy and keep you wanting more.
Essential Ingredients for Your Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Making a tasty smoked sausage and potato soup begins with picking the right ingredients. The main parts for this cozy dish are:
- Bulk mild Italian sausage
- Kielbasa smoked sausage
- Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Chicken broth
- Heavy whipping cream
- Celery, diced
- Chicken bouillon
- Garlic, minced (approximately 4 cloves)
- Salt, pepper, and other desired seasonings
You can also add ingredients like Hungarian sausage, diced yellow onion, shredded cabbage, and sour cream for garnish. This recipe is great because you can change it to fit your taste and what you have at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked Sausage Rounds | Approximately 12 |
| Potatoes | 2 |
| Heavy Cream | 1.5% of Total Ingredients |
| Chicken Stock | 5 cups |
| Cooking Time for Potatoes | 12-15 minutes |
| Thickening Time | 5 minutes |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 |
| Onion to Garlic Ratio | 1:1 |
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make a smoked sausage potato soup that your family will love.
Types of Sausage to Use – From Kielbasa to Italian
Choosing the right sausage is key to a great kielbasa and potato soup. Options like spicy Italian sausage or smoky Polish kielbasa can make your soup stand out. Each type brings its own flavor that can enhance your homemade soup.
Smoked Sausage Options
Smoked sausages, like kielbasa, are a favorite for this soup. Their rich, savory taste goes well with creamy potatoes and veggies. You can pick traditional Polish kielbasa or try Andouille or Cajun-style for something different.
Italian Sausage Variations
Italian sausage adds a spicy kick to your soup. Mild, sweet, or hot Italian sausage can add depth. Mixing different types can create a unique flavor.
Polish Kielbasa Selection
For a true kielbasa and potato soup taste, go for traditional Polish kielbasa. It’s smoked and seasoned, making it perfect with potatoes and veggies. Choose high-quality Polish kielbasa for the best flavor and texture.
| Sausage Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Kielbasa | Rich, savory, and smoky | Traditional choice for kielbasa and potato soup |
| Italian Sausage | Spicy, bold, and flavorful | Adds a zesty twist to the soup |
| Polish Kielbasa | Seasoned, smoky, and authentic | Quintessential choice for a classic kielbasa and potato soup |
Whichever sausage you pick, don’t forget onions, garlic, and fennel. They add to the balance and comfort of your kielbasa and potato soup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect sausage and potato soup is easy and rewarding. Here’s how to make this comforting dish step by step.
- Start by browning the smoked sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s nicely seared, take it out and set it aside.
- In the same pot, cook the diced onions and minced garlic in butter or oil until they smell good and are clear.
- Add the cubed potatoes and your preferred broth or stock to the pot. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let the potatoes cook until they’re tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- When the potatoes are done, mix a slurry of heavy cream (or evaporated milk) and flour. Slowly add this to the soup, stirring constantly, to thicken it.
- Put the reserved sausage back in the soup and heat it up for about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and spices like smoked paprika if you like.
- For extra nutrition, add some fresh kale or other greens in the last few minutes of cooking.
This sausage and potato soup recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 55 minutes to make. This depends on your potato cubes’ size and how thick you like the soup.
By following these easy steps, you’ll make a delicious and comforting sausage and potato soup. Your family will love it! Enjoy!
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture
Creating a rich, velvety creamy potato soup is all about the right techniques. Choosing the right dairy and preparing the potatoes are key. Each step is crucial for that creamy texture that makes the soup so comforting.
Using Heavy Cream vs. Alternatives
Heavy cream is the traditional choice for creamy potato soup. But, you can also use half-and-half, whole milk, or a mix of milk and cream. Remember, the fat content affects the soup’s richness and mouthfeel.
Thickening Techniques
- Roux: Cook butter and flour together, then whisk it into the soup to thicken.
- Potato Masher: Mash some cooked potatoes in the soup to thicken it.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup.
Proper Potato Preparation
How you prepare the potatoes affects the soup’s texture. Cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking. Leaving some skins on adds texture and nutrients.
Follow these tips to make a creamy potato soup everyone will love. The right mix of dairy, thickening agents, and potato prep creates a velvety, indulgent soup. It’s perfect for cold days when you need comfort food.
Customization Options and Add-ins
This cheesy sausage potato soup recipe is super versatile. You can make it your own by adding veggies or trying different sausages. It’s all about creating your special soup variations.
Adding kale or spinach is a great way to make it healthier. They add color and texture. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
For a richer taste, mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan. This makes the soup creamy and indulgent. Try different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor.
Customizing your sausage and potato soup is all about having fun. Experiment and turn this classic into a dish you and your loved ones will adore.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 533 kcal | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 23.8g | 8% |
| Protein | 18.6g | 37% |
| Fat | 41g | 63% |
| Cholesterol | 110.6mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 635mg | 28% |
| Fiber | 2.3g | 9% |
| Sugar | 6.8g | 8% |
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying your Sausage and Potato Soup is best when you store and reheat it right. A few easy steps can keep the soup’s flavor and texture perfect for days.
Freezing Instructions
This soup freezes amazingly well. Cool it down first, then put it in airtight containers or bags. Stored right, it stays great for up to 2 months.
Best Practices for Leftovers
- Keep leftover soup in a sealed container for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to thin it out. It thickens when it cools.
- Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir often until it’s hot.
- For microwaving, stir halfway and heat until it’s warm all the way through.
Follow these soup storage and reheating tips. Your Sausage and Potato Soup will stay delicious for a long time.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
The nutrition facts for this sausage and potato soup can change based on the recipe and ingredients. One version has about 500 calories per serving. It has 39g of fat, 18g of carbs, and 17g of protein. Another version has 512 calories, with 29g of fat, 46g of carbs, and 17g of protein.
This soup can serve 4 to 8 people. So, you can enjoy a big bowl of this soup nutrition-rich dish. Just remember to keep an eye on your portion sizes.
| Nutrition Facts | Version 1 | Version 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 500 | 512 |
| Fat | 39g | 29g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 46g |
| Protein | 17g | 17g |
| Servings per Recipe | 4-8 | 4-8 |
The nutritional info given is an estimate and can differ based on your sausage and potato soup ingredients. Always watch your serving size. Enjoy this comforting dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Pairing Suggestions and Side Dishes
Make your sausage and potato soup even better with tasty sides and pairings. The soup is great on its own, but sides can make it even more special. They add depth and a bit of luxury to your meal.
Try pairing your soup with warm, crusty bread. Soft Garlic Knots or Cheesy Garlic Bread are perfect for dipping into the broth. They soak up all the flavors beautifully.
For a lighter option, a fresh green salad is a great choice. A Southwest Salad or a Caesar Salad can offer a nice contrast to the rich soup.
- Crusty Bread (e.g., Garlic Knots, Cheesy Garlic Bread)
- Green Salads (e.g., Southwest Salad, Caesar Salad)
- Roasted Vegetables (e.g., Garlic Roasted Broccoli, Maple Glazed Carrots)
- Potato Sides (e.g., Twice Baked Potatoes, Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges)
- Cornbread or Biscuits
Roasted veggies like Garlic Roasted Broccoli or Maple Glazed Carrots are also great. They add flavor and nutrients to your meal.
Classic potato sides, like Twice Baked Potatoes or Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, are perfect with the soup. They match the soup’s hearty taste.
Lastly, try adding some Southern flair with Cornbread or Biscuits. They bring a unique charm to your meal.
Creating the ultimate sausage and potato soup experience is all about balance. Mix different sides to find the perfect match for your taste. Experiment and enjoy!
Conclusion
This sausage and potato soup recipe is a true comfort food classic. It will quickly become a family favorite. The mix of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and nutrient-rich kale makes it a satisfying meal for chilly weather.
Whether you choose the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot method, it’s easy to make. You can also prepare it in batches and customize it to your taste.
This sausage and potato soup is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. It’s packed with nutrients to nourish your body. You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, enjoying this soup all year.
Gather your loved ones and enjoy a steaming bowl. Savor the warmth and satisfaction of this homemade comfort food delight.
With its 5-star rating and rave reviews, this sausage and potato soup recipe is sure to become a new household favorite. Enjoy its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients. The endless customization possibilities make it a true culinary gem.
Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage beef, chicken, or turkey, casing removed
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh spinach or kale chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the cubed potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach or kale. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.