Creamy Sausage Potato Soup

Nothing warms a chilly evening like a big pot of creamy sausage potato soup bubbling away in the kitchen. This easy-to-make dinner is my secret weapon for family nights when everyone craves something hearty and comforting but I do not want to fuss for hours in the kitchen. It gets rave reviews at our table — especially on days when we need a little extra coziness.

I first made this soup when my son came in shivering from sledding. Now it is our most requested meal for snow days and lazy weekends because it tastes like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: brings savory spices and richness to the soup Try turkey sausage for a lighter flavor or choose the spiciest variety for more kick
• Unsalted butter: adds flavor and richness Olive oil is a great swap if you want a lighter version
• Olive oil: helps brown the vegetables and sausage Choose one with a mild flavor for best results
• Mirepoix: is a blend of diced carrots celery and yellow onion Fresh prechopped mirepoix saves prep time
• Minced garlic: deepens flavor Use fresh for best results or preminced for convenience
• Baby gold potatoes: add creaminess and hold their shape well Red potatoes work if that is what you have
• Dried parsley and dried basil: for herbal depth Go for fresh herbs when you want a more vibrant finish
• Chicken stock or broth: builds the foundation of savory flavor Vegetable broth makes it vegetarian friendly
• Flour: serves to thicken the broth Use gluten free flour if needed
• Milk: gives silkiness to the base Dairy free milks like almond or oat will also work just be sure they are unsweetened
• Heavy cream: heightens the richness Coconut cream works well for those avoiding dairy
• Salt and black pepper: to taste Always season gradually and taste as you go for best results
• Extra sharp cheddar cheese: adds bold creaminess Shred it yourself for best melt
• Sour cream: rounds out with tang Greek yogurt is a healthy swap for even more protein
• Hearty buttered bread: for serving Any crusty bread creates perfect dipping

Instructions

Brown the Sausage:

Place sausage in a large pot and cook over medium high heat breaking it up as it browns Cook for about seven minutes until nicely golden and cooked through Remove sausage to a plate lined with paper towel to drain any excess fat

Sauté the Veggies:

Lower heat to medium Melt butter then add mirepoix diced carrots celery and onion Sauté gently for about ten minutes until veggies are soft and sweet stirring often Add minced garlic and cook for half a minute just until fragrant

Simmer the Potatoes:

Add chopped potatoes dried parsley and dried basil to the pot Season with salt and pepper Pour in chicken stock Bring to a rolling boil then reduce heat Cover and simmer for twenty minutes or until potatoes are fork tender

Make the Roux:

In a separate saucepan over medium heat melt the remaining butter Whisk in flour and cook while stirring for two minutes to remove any raw taste Slowly add milk whisking constantly to avoid lumps Continue stirring for about five minutes until mixture thickens

Combine Everything:

Slowly pour the thickened milk mixture into your soup pot Stir well so all becomes smooth and creamy Add grated cheddar and sour cream mixing until both melt Return the browned sausage to the pot Taste and adjust seasoning as needed

Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle soup into bowls Top with fresh herbs if you wish Enjoy with slices of hearty buttered bread for ultimate comfort

The extra sharp cheddar is my favorite ingredient because it brings both tanginess and richness When I stir it in and watch it melt the kitchen suddenly smells like childhood memories When I was little my grandmother always used cheddar from the block and told us that was the secret to her creamy soups This comfort dish lets me pass those traditions on

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The soup will thicken as it chills but a splash of stock or milk while reheating on the stove brings it right back to creamy perfection I recommend storing the bread separately so it stays crusty

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Italian sausage for turkey or even plant based sausage if you prefer Try red or Yukon gold potatoes if you are out of baby golds and vegetable broth makes this soup totally vegetarian For dairy free use coconut cream and your favorite plant milk along with dairy free cheese

Serving Suggestions

This soup shines when served with crusty bread garlic knots or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top For a fun touch I sometimes add a handful of baby spinach at the end or chop a few scallions over each bowl Fresh cracked pepper and more cheddar are always popular additions at our house

Cultural Inspiration

Creamy potato soup has roots across so many cuisines especially in Italy and Bavaria where sausages and potatoes are kitchen staples My version plays on those classic flavors but uses simple American grocery ingredients making it approachable and affordable for any weeknight

Seasonal Adaptations

Add chopped kale or spinach at the end for a burst of green For spring try tossing in sweet peas or asparagus In late summer use fresh tomatoes or corn for color and sweetness

Success Stories

After sharing this recipe with a friend her family fell so in love they now make double batches for busy weeknights and freeze half Another reader told me this is the first dinner her picky toddler devoured with no complaints

Freezer Meal Conversion

This soup freezes surprisingly well Whip up a batch cool it and portion into containers for future meals When reheating let it gently simmer on the stove and stir in a little broth or cream to restore its original texture

Serve this creamy sausage potato soup with your favorite hearty bread and enjoy a cozy family meal any night. Leftovers are a lifesaver for busy days so make extra if you can.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage both work well and maintain the dish’s savory essence.

→ What type of potatoes are best?

Baby gold or red potatoes provide a creamy texture, but any waxy potato can be used for similar results.

→ How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap in coconut cream for heavy cream, and use almond or oat milk with dairy-free cheese alternatives.

→ Can the soup be made ahead?

Yes, this soup stores well in an airtight container for 3–4 days and can be gently reheated on the stove.

→ What bread pairs well with this dish?

Hearty, crusty buttered bread or a rustic loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.