As the wind howls outside and the leaves swirl in a crisp dance, I find myself yearning for the warmth of my kitchen. There’s something incredibly soothing about curling up with a hearty bowl of Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. This soul-warming dish brings together tender baby gold potatoes, savory Italian sausage, and hints of fresh veggies, creating a creamy hug in a bowl that’s hard to resist. Not only does it come together in under an hour, but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level by choosing between mild or hot sausage, allowing for a personal touch that everyone will love. Curious about turning your kitchen into a cozy haven? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This Creamy Sausage Potato Soup is like a warm embrace on a chilly day, perfect for those heartwarming moments.
Quick to Make: Whipping up this delicious dish takes less than an hour—ideal for busy evenings or sudden cravings.
Versatile Flavor: Customize it with mild or spicy Italian sausage, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy their favored taste.
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender baby gold potatoes and savory sausage, it’s a meal that satisfies. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store it for those nights when you crave something comforting without the hassle. Try it alongside a side of Loaded Baked Potato for an extra treat!

Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Italian sausage – Provides the main flavor and protein; choose mild or hot based on your heat preference.
Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons) – Adds richness and depth; feel free to adjust according to taste.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for searing the sausage and enhancing flavor; can be substituted with any cooking oil.
Mirepoix (2-1/4 cups or 3/4 cup each of carrots, celery, and onion) – Creates a flavorful base; pre-packaged mirepoix can save time.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon) – Adds fragrant flavor; skip if sensitive to garlic.
Chopped baby gold potatoes (4 cups) – Forms the hearty backbone of the soup; keep the skin on for texture.

For Seasoning and Thickening

Dried parsley (1 teaspoon) – Introduces fresh, herbal notes; can be substituted with fresh parsley.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon) – Elevates flavor; feel free to use fresh basil for a vibrant touch.
Chicken stock or broth (4 cups) – Serves as the soup’s flavorful base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
Flour (6 tablespoons) – Thickens the soup; can use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative.

For Creaminess

Milk (3 cups, any kind) – Adds that essential creaminess; substitute with non-dairy milk if needed.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup) – Enriches the soup; optional for a lighter version.
Salt (1 teaspoon) and pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Essential seasonings; adjust to your liking.
Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Delivers a robust, cheesy flavor; shred your own for best results.
Sour cream (1/4 cup) – Gives a tangy finish; can be omitted or replaced with yogurt.

This delightful Sausage Potato Soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Sear the Sausage
In a large pot, heat over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage, and sear until nicely browned, about 6–8 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small pieces for even cooking. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter into the same pot. Once melted, add the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for 5–10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the savory sausage flavors left in the pot.

Step 3: Add Garlic
After the mirepoix is tender, stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter. This step will add a wonderful aroma to your creamy Sausage Potato Soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
Add the chopped baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a separate pot, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Gradually pour in 3 cups of milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the heavy cream and remove from heat, ensuring a luxuriously creamy consistency for your soup.

Step 6: Combine Soup and Cream Mixture
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully mix in the creamy mixture and the shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese into the large pot. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and everything is well combined. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, heating it through and adjusting the seasoning to your taste as needed.

Step 7: Serve Your Soup
Ladle the rich and creamy Sausage Potato Soup into bowls, serving warm. Pair each bowl with a slice of hearty buttered bread for a delightful meal. Enjoy this comforting soup, perfect for those chilly days when you crave a soothing, savory dish!

Tips for the Best Sausage Potato Soup

Brown the Sausage: Ensure the sausage is deeply browned for maximum flavor and a savory base for your soup.
Avoid Boiling After Cheese: Once you add the cheese, avoid boiling the soup to prevent it from breaking down and becoming grainy.
Customize the Heat: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage as per your preference, and consider adding red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Texture Matters: Don’t peel the baby gold potatoes; the skin adds texture and heartiness to your Sausage Potato Soup.
Stir Gently: While mixing in the creamy ingredients, stir gently to prevent any potential separation in this lush mixture.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Sausage Potato Soup is a lifesaver for meal prep aficionados! You can chop the vegetables, brown the sausage, and even prepare the creamy mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to serve, combine the sautéed mirepoix, cooked potatoes, and sausage in a pot with chicken stock, bringing it to a simmer. Then stir in the creamy mixture and shredded cheese until melted. This method allows for a quick finish without losing any of the deliciousness, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup

Fridge: Store your Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Lay the bag flat for easy stacking.

Reheating: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

Variations on Sausage Potato Soup

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and customize it to suit your taste!

Half-and-Half Swap: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter, yet still creamy, version of the soup.
Turkey Sausage: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lower-fat alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and a vibrant color contrast.
Cornstarch Substitute: For a gluten-free option, switch out flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free thickening agent.
Spice it Up: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy Italian sausage instead.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary, which add depth and a lovely aroma.
Creamy Dream: For an even creamier texture, add some ricotta cheese or cream cheese along with the cheddar.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or corn for a touch of sweetness and additional texture.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a lighter take, this Creamy Sausage Potato Soup can be adapted to fit your cravings perfectly! For a great side dish, consider serving this soup with a refreshing Warm Potato Halloumi Salad.

What to Serve with Creamy Sausage Potato Soup

The warmth and richness of this delightful soup call for some perfect companions to round out your meal.

Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dunking. Its hearty texture complements the creamy richness of the soup.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad adds bright flavors and a refreshing crunch, balancing the comforting qualities of the soup beautifully.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky notes of garlic bread enhance the overall flavor profile, making for an irresistible pairing.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, providing a delicious contrast to the savory soup. Carrots and Brussels sprouts work particularly well!
Cheese-stuffed Breadsticks: These cheesy delights add another layer of flavor and make for a fun, interactive side—perfect for dipping!
Sparkling Cider: Pair your soup with a glass of sparkling cider for a bubbly, refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and elevates your dining experience.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet, comforting note. The warm spices and tender fruit echo the heartiness of the soup, creating a delightful contrast.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled vegetables can provide a zesty contrast, brightening every spoonful of rich soup.

Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Italian sausage for the soup?
Absolutely! When choosing Italian sausage, it’s important to consider your heat preference. Mild sausage offers a subtle flavor, while spicy sausage adds a thrilling kick. Whether you go fresh from the butcher or opt for pre-packaged, ensure it’s well-seasoned and has a good fat content, which will enhance the soup’s richness.

How should I store leftover Sausage Potato Soup?
Very! Store your Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain its freshness. For single servings, I often recommend using smaller containers to make reheating a breeze!

Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Lay the bag flat in the freezer for easy stacking, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stove, stirring in a little milk or cream if needed to restore its creaminess.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your Sausage Potato Soup turns out thicker than desired, you can easily adjust it. Start by adding a splash of warm broth or milk to the pot, stirring slowly until you reach your preferred consistency. If you’ve already added cream and still find it too dense, check the texture of the potatoes, as they can sometimes absorb extra moisture.

Is this soup pet-friendly?
Actually, no! While all the ingredients in Sausage Potato Soup are safe for humans, the high fat and salt content, especially from the sausage and cheese, isn’t suitable for pets. I always recommend serving them a treat made just for them.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Very easily! To adapt your Sausage Potato Soup for gluten-free diets, simply replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickening agent. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then add it to the soup while it is simmering until you achieve the desired thickness. Enjoy your delicious comfort food without worrying about gluten!