40-Minutes Sausage Potato Soup – A Homestyle Goodness

Sausage Potato Soup is a highly versatile dish we can make in very little time. We can use a wide range of ingredients to make a huge variety of different soup dishes. It doesn’t matter if you want to make a healthy breakfast soup, a light lunch, or a hearty main dish packed with flavorful ingredients.

One of the best soups you can make is creamy sausage potato soup. Perfect for lunches and family dinners, sausage potato soup is quick and easy to make and, more importantly, delicious.

So much so we want to show you how to make the best sausage potato soup. In this post, you’ll find our favorite sausage potato soup recipe (Also check out How To Make Delicious Baked Potato Soup Recipe).

We’ll show you what you need, what makes it unique, and how to make it. Let’s get cooking, shall we?

What Is Sausage Potato Soup?

Sausage Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the robust flavors of sausage with the earthy wholesomeness of potatoes.

Simmered in a savory broth and enriched with herbs, garlic, and a touch of cream, this soup is a culinary embrace for your senses. 

It’s the perfect blend of textures, from the sausage’s meatiness to the potatoes’ tender bite. Ideal for cold evenings or as a soul-soothing meal anytime, this versatile soup is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to any table.

History Of Sausage Potato Soup  

The origins of Sausage Potato Soup are deeply rooted in rustic cooking traditions that span multiple cultures. The marriage of sausage and potato in a broth can be traced back to European peasant fare, notably from regions in Germany and Ireland where both ingredients were readily available and economical. 

This soup was a way to create a nourishing meal from simple, local ingredients. Over time, the recipe crossed oceans and borders, adapting to local tastes and available spices, evolving into the versatile and universally loved comfort dish we know today.

Interesting Facts About The Sausage Potato Soup  

• Versatility: Sausage Potato Soup can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and dairy-free versions.
• Global Appeal: Although rooted in European traditions, the soup has gained popularity worldwide, including variations with regional ingredients.
• Nutrient-Rich: The potatoes in the soup are an excellent source of Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while the sausage adds protein.
• Time-Tested: The essential elements of this soup—meat, potatoes, and broth—have been staple foods for centuries, making this dish a timeless classic.
• Seasonal Adaptability: Lighter in summer with fresh herbs or heartier in winter with a creamy base, the soup adjusts easily to the seasons.
• Culinary Fusion: The dish can incorporate various types of sausage, from Italian to Chorizo, giving it a unique twist each time.
• Comfort Factor: Often rated high in “comfort food” lists, this soup is a go-to for emotional well-being and physical warmth.

What Makes The Sausage Potato Soup Special? 

• This sausage potato soup will quickly earn a top spot on your list of favorite soup recipes. It has everything you could ask for from a soup recipe.
• It’s loaded with vegetables, beautifully seasoned, flavorful, creamy, and filling. On top of that, it’s packed with soft potatoes and delicious Italian sausages.
• That’s not all that makes this sausage potato soup recipe so good. What also makes it great is its versatility and flexibility.
• We can make this soup differently and switch up our ingredients. You can swap out any veggies or add more, add cheddar cheese, and add some heat if you like things spicier.
• The combination of juicy sausage and savory broth is pretty spectacular, too.

What Makes Our Sausage Potato Soup Recipe Different?

• Our sausage potato soup recipe differs from other recipes you’ll find online. 
• The main difference is the flavor enhancers that take the soup to a new level. Unlike other sausage potato soup recipes, this  
• These two ingredients offer a stronger savory flavor, a slightly sweet bitterness, and a fantastic burst of heat.
• The combination of herbs that give the soup more flavor is unique, too. Basil, parsley, oregano, and pepper give the broth the most fantastic taste.
• Finally, the sausage is cooked over medium rather than high heat to keep it extra juicy.

Ingredients List

Ingredients	Amount
Italian sausage (mild or hot)	1 lb
Butter	2 tbsp
Yellow onion	1, diced
Carrots	½ cup, diced
Celery ribs	2, diced
Garlic cloves	3, minced
Flour	3 tbsp
Soy sauce	1 tsp
Hot sauce	1 tsp
Chicken broth	5 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Red potatoes	1¼ lbs
Cheddar cheese	2 cups
Dried basil	1 tsp
Dried parsley	½ tsp
Dried oregano	½ tsp
Mustard powder	½ tsp
Pepper	¼ tsp
Garnish	Fresh parsley, Red pepper flakes

Optional Ingredients You Need

It’s worth noting that not all the ingredients in this recipe are a must. Most are optional, so if you don’t like something in particular, don’t be afraid to remove it.

This soup recipe tastes best when all the ingredients are used. 

The main ingredients that are optional in this recipe are cheddar cheese, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, and heavy cream. 

While these ingredients bring much to the dish, they can be replaced. 

For example, you could swap the heavy cream for a low-fat cream. You could also stay away from hot sauce and pepper flakes if you don’t like spicy food.

Ingredient Tips 

• Sausage Choice: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor. Mild or hot depends on your heat tolerance.
• Potato Varieties: Red potatoes hold their shape well in soups, but Yukon Golds can add a creamier texture.
• Vegetable Freshness: Use fresh, crisp vegetables for better flavor and texture. Organic produce can offer a richer taste.
• Chicken Broth: A homemade chicken broth can elevate the soup. Still, store-bought is fine—choose a low-sodium version to control salt levels.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream without compromising much on richness.
• Seasoning Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the dried herbs to match your preferences or use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Cheese Choice: A sharp Cheddar adds depth, but other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina can add a unique twist.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets and use a high-fat cream. Opt for a keto-friendly sausage.
• Paleo: Use coconut milk instead of cream and choose a paleo-compliant sausage. Skip the flour and cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your sausage and broth are gluten-free.
• Whole30: Skip the dairy and flour entirely, opting for a compliant sausage and using vegetable puree as a thickener.
• Vegetarian: Replace sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth. You can also add more root vegetables for a hearty touch.
• Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, coconut milk, or a vegan cream substitute. Omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Recipe Directions

• Cook the Sausage: Crumble and cook sausage in a pot for 10-12 minutes. Remove and save 1 tbsp drippings.
• Cook Vegetables: In the same pot with drippings and butter, sauté celery, carrots, onions, and garlic.
• Broth and Seasonings: Add flour, then slowly add chicken broth and other seasonings. Stir in heavy cream.
• Simmer and Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to a boil until tender (20-25 minutes).
• Add Sausage: Mix the cooked sausage back in. Optionally add cheddar cheese.
• Serve: Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Smoked Sausage: Replace Italian sausage with smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Veggies: Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
• Spices: Incorporate smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Add-Ons

• Beans: Cannellini or navy beans can add texture and protein.
• Corn: For a hint of sweetness, throw in some corn kernels.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky flavor and crunch.

Toppings

• Herbs: Besides parsley, try chives or dill.
• Cheese: Experiment with Asiago or Parmesan cheese for a different tang.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons add a delightful crunch.

Scaling The Recipe

• Ingredient Proportions: Maintain the ratio of ingredients. If doubling the recipe, double all the components, including seasonings. For halving, do the opposite.
• Pot Size: Ensure your cooking vessel can accommodate the scaled-up volume. For larger batches, consider a commercial-sized pot.
• Cooking Time: More volume may require longer cooking, especially simmering the potatoes until tender. Always check for doneness.
• Stirring: Consistent stirring becomes even more critical in larger batches to prevent sticking or uneven cooking.
• Storage: If scaling up, have adequate storage containers ready for leftovers. For smaller batches, consider reducing cooking time slightly to retain freshness.
• Serving: Plan your serving dishes and utensils according to the scaled size to maintain the visual appeal and practicality of the dish.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

In the Sausage Potato Soup recipe, garnishing is essential in adding visual appeal and enhancing flavors. The primary garnishes are:

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note, making the soup look more vibrant and appetizing.
• Red Pepper Flakes: These offer a spicy kick and a pop of color, appealing to those who prefer a spicier profile.
• Additional Options:
• Grated Cheese: A sprinkling of extra Cheddar or Parmesan can add a layer of richness.
• Croutons: For added crunch and texture, consider topping with homemade croutons.
• Green Onions: Sliced thinly, these can bring both color and a mild, oniony zing to the dish.

Can I Make Sausage Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Cook and crumble the sausage in a separate pan. 
• Add it to the slow cooker with all other ingredients except heavy cream and cheese. 
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours. 
• Stir in the heavy cream and cheese about 30 minutes before serving.

Instant Pot

• Use the Sauté function for cooking the sausage. Remove it and sauté the vegetables in the same pot.
• Add all ingredients except for the heavy cream and cheese. Lock the lid, and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Quick-release, then stir in the heavy cream and cheese.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: Quick and easy, especially for last-minute preparations.
• Consistency: Reliable taste and salt levels.
• Variety: Options like low-sodium, organic, or flavored broths.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Control: Customize it to your taste preferences, adjusting salt, herbs, and spices.
• Quality: No preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Cost-Effective: Make use of vegetable scraps and leftover bones.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup? 

Meat/Fish

• Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken can add a different protein twist.
• Shrimp: Add cooked shrimp in the final minutes for a seafood variation.

Pasta

• Tortellini: Small cheese-filled tortellini can replace potatoes for an Italian flair.
• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta can add a different texture.

Vegetables

• Kale/Spinach: Adds color and nutritional value.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a sweeter, more autumnal twist.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup

Mastering the art of soup-making involves a combination of preparation tactics and cooking wisdom. Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your Sausage Potato Soup:

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Have all your ingredients chopped and measured before cooking.
• Uniform Cuts: Ensure vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking.
• Cold Cream: Use cold heavy cream to prevent curdling.

Cooking Time Tips

• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to meld flavors once all ingredients are in.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings before adding the next set of ingredients.
• Potato Test: Use a fork to check if potatoes are tender but not mushy; this signals the soup’s readiness.

Nutritional Values 

Sausage Potato Soup offers a hearty blend of nutrients. Dive into a bowl rich in protein, vitamins, and essential minerals for a flavorful health boost.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup? 

Using the ingredients mentioned in this recipe, an average Sausage Potato Soup can provide approximately 300 calories per serving. Do note that this is an approximate figure.

The exact calorie content in the soup can vary based on the ingredients you use. To get accurate figures, you should take the help of designated applications.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Sausage Potato Soup 

• Gluten: Flour is used as a thickening agent, posing an issue for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy: Heavy cream and cheddar cheese are unsuitable for lactose-intolerant or dairy-free individuals.
• Meat: Italian sausage and chicken broth restricted for vegetarians and vegans.
• Sodium: Store-bought broth and cheese can be high in salt, which concerns those watching sodium intake.
• Allergens: Those allergic to dairy or soy (from the soy sauce) should avoid this recipe.

Health Benefits Of The Sausage Potato Soup 

• Protein: Both sausage and cheddar cheese contribute to your daily protein intake, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
• Potassium: Red potatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to lower cholesterol.
• Bone Health: The calcium from dairy contributes to strong bones and teeth.
• Satiety: The combination of protein, fat, and fiber can help you feel full longer, aiding in portion control.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Sausage Potato Soup Lower In Sodium? 

• Homemade Broth: Opt for a homemade chicken broth where you control the salt content. Alternatively, if purchasing store-bought, select a low-sodium or sodium-free version.
• Sausage Selection: Look for low-sodium sausages or consider replacing them with fresh ground meat (like turkey or chicken) that you season minimally.
• Skip Soy Sauce: Omit soy sauce or replace it with a sodium-free soy sauce alternative.
• Cheese: Use less cheese, or find a lower-sodium cheese variety.
• Season Thoughtfully: Rely more on herbs, spices, and natural flavor enhancers like lemon juice or vinegar, and add salt sparingly at the end if necessary.

How Can I Make Sausage Potato Soup Lower In Sugar? 

• Natural Sausage: Ensure the sausage you select doesn’t have added sugars. Some processed sausages contain hidden sugars as preservatives or flavor enhancers.
• Watch the Broth: Some commercial broths contain added sugars. Opt for homemade or scrutinized labels for no-sugar-added versions.
• Limit Carrots: While nutritious, carrots have natural sugars. Reduce the quantity if desired.
• No Sugar Additions: Ensure no sugary sauces or flavorings are added inadvertently.
• Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Processed foods can have hidden sugars. Using fresh ingredients guarantees better control over the soup’s sugar content.

How To Serve The Sausage Potato Soup At Its Best? 

• Warm Bowls: Preheat bowls by pouring hot water and then dumping it out. A warm bowl ensures the soup remains hot when served.
• Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a vibrant color and a flavor kick.
• Texture Contrast: For a contrasting crunch, offer crusty bread or croutons on the side.
• Cheese on Top: A sprinkle of grated cheddar or a dollop of sour cream adds richness.
• Adjust Consistency: If stored overnight, the soup may thicken. Thin with broth or water to the desired consistency.
• Serve Immediately: Once ready, serve immediately to savor its warmth and aroma.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Sausage Potato Soup 

• Crusty Bread: Freshly baked baguette or sourdough to soak up the flavors.
• Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette contrasts the soup’s richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Veggies like Brussels sprouts or asparagus can have contrasting texture and flavor.
• Cheese Board: Assorted cheeses, nuts, and olives can enhance the soup’s savory profile.
• Stuffed Rolls: Rolls filled with cheese or herbs for a delightful surprise.
• Grilled Sandwich: Think classic grilled cheese or a panini with a light filling.

How Long Can We Store The Soup? 

Storing this soup to eat at a later date is very straightforward. Keep the soup in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer. 

The soup freezes and reheats well so you won’t have any problems. 

You should use any sausage and potato soup in your refrigerator within 3 days. Soup kept in the freezer can be used within 3 months.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance? 

• Day Before: Prepare the soup fully or partially a day ahead. This can also help flavors meld together better.
• Reheat: Before serving, gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Adjust consistency with broth if needed.
• Freezing: If made well in advance, freeze the soup in portioned containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when required.
• Storing Ingredients: You can also prep and keep individual ingredients (like chopped veggies) in advance for quicker assembly on cooking day.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Pot Pie Filling: Use the soup as a hearty filling for a pot pie, topped with puff pastry or biscuit dough.
• Baked Casserole: Mix with cooked rice or pasta, top with cheese, and bake until golden.
• Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill with the soup mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender.
• Soup Base: Thin out with some broth and add fresh vegetables or beans for a new soup variation.
• Savory Pancake Topping: Serve over savory pancakes or potato cakes.
• Pasta Sauce: Blend and serve over pasta, garnishing with fresh herbs.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Use as a decadent topping for baked potatoes, complemented with sour cream and chives.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Heavy-Duty Pot: A large, sturdy pot, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, ensures even heat distribution and reduces the risk of burning.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for uniformly dicing vegetables and meat, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting Board: A good-sized, sturdy board aids in prepping ingredients efficiently.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and preventing ingredients from sticking to the pot.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensuring accurate ingredient proportions.
• Soup Ladle: For serving the soup without spills.
• Immersion Blender: Useful if you prefer a partly blended soup for a creamier texture without completely losing the chunkiness.
• Airtight Containers: For storing any leftovers or prepped ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, our favorite sausage potato soup recipe (Also check out Paula Deen Potato Soup). This recipe is easily one of the most delicious, quick, and easy soups you can make if you want to make a hearty soup for your family.

Now, you have this recipe at your disposal. All you have to do is find the right ingredients and make the soup.

We know you’ll love this soup, and we’re sure your guests will, too.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Turkey Or Chicken Sausage Instead Of Italian Sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage are lighter alternatives to traditional Italian sausage. They can easily be substituted to fit dietary preferences or needs.

Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free creamer. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.

How Can I Make The Soup Spicier?

To add a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, add a diced jalapeño, or use a spicier sausage variety.

What’s The Best Way To Store And Reheat Frozen Soup?

For best results, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Soup?

Of course! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can be added. Just ensure they’re diced similarly to ensure even cooking.