This Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty bits of sausage, soft potatoes, and fresh herbs, it’s comforting and filling.
On a chilly day, this soup is my go-to! I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping. Trust me, you’ll want to warm up with a big bowl of this deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I like using mild Italian sausage, but you can easily switch to spicy if you prefer some heat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works too!
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes provide a great texture. However, you can use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a fun twist. Just remember that sweet potatoes will bring a different flavor.
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: I enjoy heavy cream for richness, but if you want a lighter version, try using milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. These will change the creaminess slightly but still work well!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is a must for garnish. If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, dried versions can substitute, but I recommend using half the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Sausage Without It Getting Tough?
Getting the sausage just right can be tricky. Here’s how I do it, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful:
- Heat your pot, then add the olive oil and sausage. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks to evenly brown.
- Cook medium heat to avoid burning. This helps render the fat, making the sausage tender.
- Don’t rush! Allow about 6-8 minutes of cooking time, stirring occasionally.
By slowly cooking, you’ll get deliciously browned bits and a lovely flavor base for your soup!
Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, plan for about 45 minutes to enjoy this lovely dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, using a spoon to break it apart as you cook. Brown it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s cooked through. Once it’s ready, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Keep those yummy drippings in the pot!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the same pot. Sauté for around 5 minutes or until they have softened up a bit. The aromas will start filling your kitchen!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and delicious.
4. Mix It All Together:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Now, toss in the cubed potatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), and season with salt and fresh black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Pour in the Liquids:
Now pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
6. Add Creaminess:
Once the potatoes are soft, it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream and let the soup heat through gently for about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, so the cream stays nice and smooth.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the fresh parsley and any optional fresh thyme or rosemary if you have it. Now taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your lovely soup hot, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. This soup is perfect with some crusty bread or a light salad for a cozy meal. Enjoy every comforting bite!
This hearty soup features tender potatoes and savory Italian sausage in a creamy broth with delightful Italian herbs, making it a wonderful choice for any dinner!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option or even use ground beef or chicken. Just adjust the seasoning based on the meat’s flavor profile!
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make this soup dairy-free, simply replace the half-and-half or heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. It will still provide a creamy texture without dairy!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in veggies like spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and tender.