Description
Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients:
250g ground sausage
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, then sauté until fragrant. Add ground sausage and cook until browned. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect soup every time. First, prep all ingredients: dice potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. In your large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Drain any excess grease if desired. Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful bits. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Finally, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted. Heat through for 5 minutes without boiling.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal on its own, but perfect pairings elevate it. Serve it in a deep bowl with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or flaky biscuits for dipping. For a fresh contrast, add a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Top individual servings with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of crispy cooked sausage crumbles, chopped green onions, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion and garlic in butter. Brown the sausage in the same pot. Add broth, potatoes, and seasonings, then simmer until potatoes are tender. Reduce heat and stir in cream and cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent for creaminess, while russets will thicken the soup more. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they hold their shape too firmly.
How can I make this soup lighter?
Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickening. Use reduced-fat cheese and lean turkey sausage.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, as the dairy can separate if boiled.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy (cream and cheese) and potatoes, which can become grainy and separate when thawed.
What if my soup is too thin?
Create a quick slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the simmering soup and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling after adding dairy: Once cream and cheese are added, only simmer on low heat. Boiling will cause the soup to curdle.
- Underseasoning: Potatoes absorb salt. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, after the cream and cheese are incorporated.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Cook just until tender. Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and break apart too much in the soup.
- Not browning the sausage properly: Take time to fully brown the sausage for maximum flavor development in the base.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth in one pot. It’s straightforward to prepare yet delivers deeply satisfying flavors perfect for any weeknight or cozy gathering. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious result. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy this hearty, warming classic.