Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe (Stove Top or Slow Cooker)

Welcome to Sweet Emily, where we make baking and cooking simple and fun! There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort to your home, especially on a chilly evening. This delicious Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor, yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent or a beginner cook, this recipe offers versatility with both stove top and slow cooker methods for ultimate convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Potato Soup

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You are going to adore this easy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe for so many reasons. It truly makes weeknight meals a breeze!

  • Rich and Flavorful: Every spoonful delivers a comforting blend of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth.
  • Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is a complete meal on its own, perfect for filling hungry tummies after a long day.
  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You’ll use everyday pantry staples to create an incredibly delicious dish.
  • Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat from mild to spicy to suit your family’s preference.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for packed lunches or quick dinners.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your own delightful Sausage Potato Soup Recipe. You’ll be amazed at the rich flavor you can achieve with these kitchen staples.

  • 1 lb. ground Italian sausage, hot or mild
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • ½ cup diced carrots
  • 2 ribs celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon soy Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ¼ lbs. red potatoes, about 6 small potatoes
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon EACH: dried parsley, oregano, mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Notes & Substitutions

You have options for your Italian sausage: choose mild for a family-friendly flavor or hot for an extra kick. For the best texture, we recommend using red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes because they hold their shape well and get wonderfully tender. Don’t skip the soy sauce and hot sauce; these are secret flavor enhancers that add incredible depth without making the soup taste like Asian food or overly spicy. If you prefer, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter broth, though it may not be as rich.

Equipment

You won’t need many specialized tools for this easy soup. Gather these basics and you’ll be ready to cook.

  • Large pot or Dutch oven (4-5 quart)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Silicone spatula for deglazing
  • Optional: large skillet for browning sausage
  • Optional: Crock Pot or slow cooker

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup (Step-by-Step)

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Making this creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is straightforward, whether you choose the stove top or slow cooker method. Follow these steps for a comforting meal.

Stove Top Method:

  • Remove casings from the sausage if using links. Preheat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, then cook and crumble it until no pink remains, about 10-12 minutes. Partially cover the pot for the last few minutes, stirring occasionally.

    According to FoodSafety.gov, ground meat and sausage should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe for consumption.

  • Set the cooked sausage aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the sausage drippings in the pot. If you don’t have enough drippings, use 1 tablespoon of butter instead.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot with the reserved drippings over medium heat. Stir in the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, creating a roux. This will help thicken your soup.
  • Slowly add the chicken broth in splashes, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Use your silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; this deglazing adds amazing flavor to your Sausage Potato Soup Recipe.
  • Gradually stir in the heavy cream, hot sauce, and soy sauce. Add all the dried seasonings (basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, pepper) and mix thoroughly until well combined.
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
  • Clean and pat dry the red potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes. Add the cubed potatoes to the simmering soup.
  • Simmer the soup, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Make sure not to overcook them.
  • Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine it with the creamy potato base.
  • Reduce the heat to low. If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup. Garnish and serve your warm, delicious soup immediately.

Crock Pot Method:

  1. Cook and crumble the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat on the stove top. Halfway through cooking, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are softened.
  2. Drain the grease very well from the sausage and vegetable mixture. Transfer the mixture to your Crock Pot or slow cooker.
  3. Add all remaining ingredients to the Crock Pot except the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. This includes the chicken broth, potatoes, soy sauce, hot sauce, and all dry seasonings.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Once cooked, reduce the heat setting to “warm.” Slowly stir in the heavy cream until it’s fully combined and the soup is wonderfully creamy. Turn the heat off.
  6. If desired, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into the warm soup. Serve your hearty Sausage Potato Soup Recipe immediately or keep it on warm until ready to eat. Note: You may need to skim excess grease from the top before serving if the sausage was very fatty.

Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Potato Soup

Follow these simple tips to ensure your homemade Sausage Potato Soup Recipe turns out perfect every time!

  • Perfect Sausage: Use medium heat when browning the sausage; this helps it cook evenly without drying out.
  • Don’t Skip Deglazing: Those browned bits at the bottom of the pot are pure flavor! Scrape them up with your spatula when adding broth.
  • Choose Wisely: Red or Yukon Gold potatoes are best here, as they hold their shape and become creamy without turning mushy.
  • Secret Enhancers: The small amounts of soy sauce and hot sauce add incredible depth of flavor without overpowering the soup. Trust us on this!
  • Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving. You can always add more salt, pepper, or seasonings to suit your preference.
  • Avoid Overcooking Potatoes: This is especially important if you plan to freeze the soup, as overcooked potatoes can become grainy when reheated.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

This versatile Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is wonderful on its own, but also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting soup with a side of crusty bread or warm crackers for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect complement, adding a fresh contrast to the rich soup. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra color and a little warmth.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup also freezes beautifully! For longer storage, transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave.

Recipe Variations

  • Add More Veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen corn or fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
  • Different Sausage: Experiment with spicy chorizo or chicken sausage for a new flavor profile.
  • Other Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda for a different cheesy twist.
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream alternative (like full-fat canned coconut milk, ensuring it’s unsweetened) and dairy-free cheese.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a little cold water before adding) to thicken.

Nutrition Information

This estimated nutrition information for one serving of Sausage Potato Soup Recipe will help you plan your meals.

NutrientAmount
Calories359kcal
Carbohydrates13g
Protein14g
Fat28g
Saturated Fat14g
Polyunsaturated Fat2g
Monounsaturated Fat10g
Trans Fat1g
Cholesterol86mg
Sodium862mg
Potassium506mg
Fiber1g
Sugar2g
Vitamin A1603IU
Vitamin C14mg
Calcium189mg
Iron1mg

This is an estimated nutritional analysis based on the ingredients listed and a serving size of approximately 1.5 cups per serving. Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands, preparation methods, and ingredient substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen diced carrots and celery for convenience. Add them directly to the pot during the sautéing step, no need to thaw them first.

What’s the best type of potato?

For this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe, we recommend red or Yukon Gold potatoes. They hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture without becoming mushy.

Can this soup be made spicy?

Absolutely! Use hot Italian sausage, and you can also increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for more heat.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just be careful not to overcook the potatoes if you plan on freezing it, as they can get a bit grainy when thawed.

How do I thicken or thin the soup?

To thicken, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of simmering. To thin it, simply add a bit more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, hearty, and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It is perfect for busy weeknights, offering both stove top and slow cooker options to fit your schedule.

We hope you’ll love making and sharing this delicious soup with your family as much as we do. Give it a try soon and discover your new favorite! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends!

simple Sausage Potato Soup Recipe taken with an old camera, hearty soup, shallow depth of field, rustic ceramic bowl, creamy broth, crumbled sausage, tender potatoes, carrots, melted cheddar, fresh parsley, soft natural light, cozy atmosphere.

Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe (Stove Top or Slow Cooker)

A hearty and comforting creamy sausage potato soup that can be prepared on the stove top for a quick meal or in a slow cooker for a convenient, hands-off approach. This versatile recipe features savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Silicone spatula
  • Crock pot

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 0.5 teaspoon oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage hot or mild
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 0.5 cup carrots diced
  • 2 celery ribs, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon soy Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.25 lbs red potatoes about 6 small potatoes
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese optional

Instructions
 

Stove Top Method

  • Cook Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat, crumbling until cooked through (10-12 minutes), then set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon drippings.
  • Add drippings and butter to the pot, then cook diced onions, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes, followed by minced garlic for 1 minute.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, hot sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings, scraping the pot bottom.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, add 1-inch cubed red potatoes, and cook uncovered until fork-tender (20-25 minutes); stir in the cooked sausage.
  • Reduce heat to low, stir in shredded cheddar cheese if desired, and serve the soup hot.

Notes

This soup offers two preparation methods: a quick stove-top version and a convenient slow cooker option. For the slow cooker, ensure sausage grease is thoroughly drained, and you may need to skim excess fat from the soup surface at the end of cooking. Note that the slow cooker method does not utilize drippings, butter, or flour in the same way as the stove-top method.

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