Sausage Potato Soup

Introduction

When the weather turns colder and you crave something warm, comforting, and filling, this Sausage Potato Soup is the answer. It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel cozy, nourished, and satisfied, whether you’re winding down after a long day or serving it up for a family meal. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth makes it a complete meal in a bowl. My family absolutely loves this soup, and I’ve made it countless times. It’s so easy to prepare, and it’s packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish to enjoy on chilly nights.

I love that this Sausage Potato Soup has the versatility to be made with mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference, and it’s easy to adjust the level of heat with the addition of red pepper flakes. The kale (or spinach) adds a nutritious boost, and the creamy broth ties everything together beautifully. It’s the kind of dish you can make ahead of time, enjoy for lunch or dinner, and even freeze for later use. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
• 4 cups potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked through. If there is excess grease, drain it off, leaving a small amount in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
   Stir in the peeled and diced potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Add the Cream and Greens:
   Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version) and chopped kale or spinach. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
5. Season and Adjust:
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This hearty, flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as part of a larger meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, makes about 6 servings)

• Calories per serving: 350 kcal
• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• For Dinner: Serve this soup as a hearty main dish, especially paired with crusty bread or a side salad.
• For Lunch: It’s a great leftover lunch option. Simply store it in the fridge, and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
• For Meal Prep: Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• With Toppings: Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or extra red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• As a Starter: Serve it as a starter before a larger meal or alongside a charcuterie board for a cozy evening.

Additional Tips

1. Adjusting the Spice:
   If you’re using spicy sausage and want to tame the heat, you can reduce or eliminate the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you like it extra spicy, add more red pepper flakes or use a hot sausage.
2. Substitute the Greens:
   Kale is great for adding texture and nutrition, but you can substitute it with spinach, Swiss chard, or any leafy green you prefer.
3. Make it Creamier:
   For an even creamier soup, you can add more heavy cream or use whole milk. You can also use a combination of cream and broth for a balanced texture.
4. Use Homemade Broth:
   If you have homemade chicken broth on hand, it will add an extra depth of flavor to the soup. If not, a good-quality store-bought broth works just fine.
5. Make Ahead:
   This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together, so feel free to make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Slow Cooker Version:
  Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker with the potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Let it cook on low for 6-7 hours, adding the cream and greens in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetarian Version:
  Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this hearty soup. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Low-Carb Version:
  Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative that still offers a satisfying texture.
• Chicken Sausage:
  If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the Italian sausage with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread:
  Serve this soup alongside some crispy garlic bread for a delicious combo.
• With a Salad:
  Pair with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• With Cheese and Croutons:
  Top the soup with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese and homemade croutons for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
• Freezing:
  This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove until warm.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
   Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and a nutritional boost.
2. Can I use frozen kale or spinach?
   Yes, frozen kale or spinach works fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free cream alternative.
4. How can I make this soup thicker?
   To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot or add a little cornstarch mixed with water.
5. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the soup for additional flavor and texture.
7. Can I use other types of sausage?
   Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even spicy chorizo for a different flavor profile.
8. How do I make this soup spicier?
   You can add more red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a hotter version.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
   This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including salad, crusty bread, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
10. How do I store this soup if I have leftovers?
    Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Sausage Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly nights when you need something hearty and warming. It’s full of savory sausage, creamy potatoes, and delicious greens, making it a complete meal that your whole family will enjoy. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for leftovers, this soup is a must-have recipe for your winter meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, lunch, or even as part of a holiday meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

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