This sausage potato soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner. The rich flavors of savory sausage meld beautifully with creamy potatoes and a hint of herbs, creating a bowl of warmth that invites you to dig in. Easy to make and satisfying, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into making this delightful soup!
Ingredients
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Add the heavy cream and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This hearty sausage potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light vinaigrette-dressed salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, the cream may separate slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Be careful with seasoning; add salt gradually to avoid over-salting.
- Use low heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Always taste before serving to adjust flavors.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs; they enhance the flavor significantly.
Helpful Tips
- Prep your ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Experiment with spices like paprika for an extra kick.
- Top with shredded cheese for added richness.
FAQs
Can I make sausage potato soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and onions in a skillet, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage is a classic choice for this recipe, but you can also use andouille or kielbasa for a spicier flavor.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Just be sure to dice them evenly for consistent cooking.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To make this soup healthier, consider using turkey sausage, reducing the cream, or adding more vegetables such as spinach or kale.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The sausage potato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Sausage potato soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile and easy to make. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter night or as a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to please family and friends alike. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Sausage Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced
- 4 medium potatoes diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a large pot until translucent.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Add the heavy cream and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
