If you’re craving something that feels like the ultimate comfort hug in a bowl, this Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender cubes of russet potatoes swimming in a rich, velvety broth, perfectly balanced with savory Italian sausage and a touch of green kale for freshness. The creamy texture combined with the hearty sausage makes it an irresistible dish that warms your soul and satisfies your taste buds all at once. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day you want to treat yourself, this soup delivers deliciousness with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, affordable, and each one plays a critical role in building the deep flavors and satisfying consistency of this soup. From the fragrant garlic to the tender potatoes, every component brings something special to the pot.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Italian sausage: The star protein that infuses the soup with its bold, savory character.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves: Offer aromatic warmth and a hint of zest.
- Russet potatoes: The creamy body of the soup, perfect for thickening and texture.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that melds all the flavors together.
- Dried thyme: Introduces a subtle herbal brightness that complements the sausage.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but great for a gentle spicy kick.
- Heavy cream: Brings the luscious creaminess that makes this soup so comforting.
- Kale or spinach: Adds fresh, nutritious greens that balance richness and color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring the entire dish to life.
How to Make Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat to create a flavorful base. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until it’s beautifully browned. This browning step develops those rich, meaty flavors that are absolutely crucial to this soup’s personality. If you notice a lot of grease, feel free to drain it off so your soup doesn’t get oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and let it soften for about 4 to 5 minutes. This slowly caramelizes the onions, lending a natural sweetness that contrasts with the savory sausage. Add minced garlic and continue cooking for just 30 seconds more—it’s enough to release those wonderful garlicky aromas without overwhelming the soup.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add your diced potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and those crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of spice. Bring everything up to a boil, then lower the heat and let it all simmer gently. This simmering process softens the potatoes while letting the flavors meld beautifully. After about 15 to 20 minutes, your potatoes should be perfectly tender and ready for the next step.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Greens
The finishing touch is to stir in the heavy cream followed by the chopped kale or spinach. The cream creates that luxurious, silky texture that earns this dish its name, while the greens add fresh flavor and vibrant color. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes so the greens wilt gently and everything heats through evenly. A final seasoning adjustment with salt and pepper will complete your masterpiece.
How to Serve Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While this soup is perfect on its own, some fresh garnishes can lift it even higher. I love sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and brightness. A little shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can add a cheesy or tangy twist that makes every bite more indulgent.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty, but pairing it with some crusty bread or warm garlic rolls creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for dipping. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp counterpoint to the soup’s creamy richness, rounding out your meal nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner or a party, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It not only looks impressive but doubles the bread for dunking. You can also ladle the soup over cooked rice or pasta for a filling twist that transforms it into a one-pot wonder.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. When you reheat, stir occasionally to keep the cream from separating and maintain that luscious texture.
Freezing
While freezing creamy soups can be tricky because dairy sometimes changes texture when thawed, this Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe freezes quite well if you skip adding the cream before freezing. Freeze the soup in portions without cream, then stir in fresh cream when reheating. This method preserves the flavor and creaminess perfectly.
Reheating
Reheat soups gently over medium-low heat to avoid boiling off the cream or curdling. Stir frequently until hot and add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage offers a leaner option and still packs plenty of flavor. It’s a great swap if you want to lighten up the Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The soup will remain creamy and delicious, with a slight coconut undertone that pairs well with the seasonings.
What if I don’t have kale? Can I use other greens?
Spinach is a fantastic alternative to kale and wilts quickly, adding a similar fresh touch. Swiss chard or collard greens can also work, just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so the greens don’t get too tough.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check the sausage ingredients. It’s a wonderful option for anyone avoiding gluten but still wanting a hearty, comforting meal.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything except the cream and greens to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cream and greens in the last 15 minutes of cooking to keep that fresh, creamy finish.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe, it just might become your go-to comfort food for any season. It’s got that magical combination of creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and fresh greens that makes it both cozy and satisfying. So grab your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this heartwarming soup. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Potato and Sausage Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender russet potatoes, flavorful Italian sausage, and nutritious kale or spinach all simmered in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for an easy dinner, this soup combines savory sausage with the smoothness of heavy cream and the freshness of greens for a satisfying meal that’s gluten-free and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Soup Base and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon. Remove excess grease if needed to keep the soup from being too oily.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low and simmer the soup uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Cream and Greens: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale or spinach. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, creamy soup.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option if preferred.
- Spinach can be substituted for kale based on your taste preference.
- Remove excess grease after cooking sausage to reduce fat content.
