Sausage Potato Soup – Cozy, Creamy, and Hearty

There’s something magical about a big pot of soup simmering away on the stove. The steam curls up and fills the kitchen with the kind of scent that feels like a hug — warm, savory, and comforting. Sausage Potato Soup is that kind of dish. It’s rich and creamy, filled with chunks of tender potatoes, hearty sausage, and a touch of spice that warms you right through.

This recipe is the perfect antidote to a chilly evening, a quick weeknight dinner, or the dish you bring out when you want to feed the soul as much as the stomach. It’s a bowl full of nostalgia, the kind that reminds you of coming inside from the cold and finding home waiting in the form of a steaming pot.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once browned, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add potatoes and broth: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Combine and simmer: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for 10 more minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Add the cream: Reduce heat to low. Slowly stir in heavy cream and warm through — do not let it boil after adding the cream, or it might curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.

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Tips & Tricks

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or substitute with evaporated milk.
• Add a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of simmering for a nutrient boost.
• If you like a thicker soup, mash a few potato pieces with the back of a spoon before adding the cream.

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Variations

• Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese after adding the cream for a rich, cheesy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch more crushed red pepper.
• Vegetable Boost: Add corn, peas, or diced zucchini for more texture and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
• Pair with a simple green salad or Caesar salad to balance the richness.
• For a cozy dinner, serve alongside a light dessert like apple crisp or peach cobbler.

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Storage Information
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid boiling once cream is added to prevent separation.

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FAQ
Can I use different sausage?
Yes! You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except the cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, stir in the cream before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and rich.

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History / Fun Facts
Creamy sausage soups have roots in European comfort cooking — think of rustic farmhouse kitchens where leftover meats and potatoes came together to make hearty stews. In Italy, similar soups inspired dishes like Zuppa Toscana, while in the American South, sausage and potato pairings became staples in home cooking, especially during winter months. Today, this recipe is a modern cozy classic that bridges tradition with everyday ease.