As the winter months approach, there’s nothing quite like a warm, savory, aromatic, tender, flavorful, and delicious bowl of soup to cozy up with. Among the many options, Creamy Sausage Potato Soup stands out for its comforting blend of spices, tender sausage, and velvety potatoes. This recipe is a staple for winter dinner gatherings, and with a few expert tips, you can perfect it for your family and friends.
Before diving into the recipe, if you’re looking for more inspiration on how to make the most out of your winter dinner gatherings, check out our guide on Winter Dinner Ideas for a variety of dishes to complement your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
Why This Recipe Works
This Creamy Sausage Potato Soup recipe works because it strikes the perfect balance between the savory flavors of sausage, the creaminess of potatoes, and a hint of spice. Unlike many recipes, it uses a combination of chicken and beef broth to add depth, and a simple roux to thicken the soup without resulting in an overly dense consistency. Furthermore, cooking the sausage until it’s nicely browned enhances the overall flavor, making this soup a true comfort food delight.
Key Ingredient Highlights
Several ingredients make this soup truly special:
- Sausages: Choose a high-quality sausage with a good balance of spices. You can use either sweet or hot sausages, depending on your preference.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which helps to naturally thicken the soup.
- Broth Mix: The combination of chicken and beef broth adds a rich flavor profile.
- Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half adds the necessary creaminess without making the soup too rich.
THE RECIPE CARD
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is perfect for winter evenings, with the comforting combination of tender sausage, creamy potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients
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â–¢ 1 lb sweet or hot sausage, sliced
â–¢ 2 tablespoons butter
â–¢ 1 large onion, diced
â–¢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
â–¢ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
â–¢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
â–¢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
â–¢ 4 cups mixed broth (chicken and beef)
â–¢ 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
â–¢ 3 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
â–¢ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add more butter if necessary, then sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the mixed broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the browned sausage back into the pot, along with the diced potatoes. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Stir the cream mixture into the soup and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, until the soup has thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips
To perfect your Creamy Sausage Potato Soup, keep the following tips in mind:
- Prevent Lumps in the Soup: When adding the flour and cream mixture, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps. You can also temper the cream by slowly adding a bit of the hot soup to the cream mixture before adding it back to the pot.
- Cook Sausage Properly: Ensure the sausage is cooked until it’s nicely browned to enhance the flavor. However, avoid overcooking, as this can make the sausage dry.
- DON’T Overcook Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until they’re just tender. Overcooking can make them too soft and unappealing in the soup.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Sausage Potato Soup:
- Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, but Russet potatoes are preferred due to their high starch content, which helps thicken the soup.
- How do I store leftovers? Cool the soup completely, then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat gently over low heat.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the sausage and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for the winter season. By following the tips and recipe provided, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy exploring the world of soups and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make this recipe your own.
For more winter dinner ideas and recipes, check out our guide and stay warm with a bowl of your homemade Creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
