Creamy Sausage & Potato Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty bowl of soup on a cool evening — and this Creamy Sausage & Potato Soup hits every mark. With savory Italian sausage, fork-tender potatoes, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious cream-based broth, it’s a one-pot wonder that feels indulgent yet comes together easily.

Whether you’re cooking for family, planning a cozy dinner, or prepping meals ahead, this soup delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. The creamy texture, flavorful sausage bits, and warm potato chunks combine for a cozy meal you’ll want again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), removed from casings
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1¼ lbs red or gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for richness)
• Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, crumbling it as it browns, until fully cooked. Remove most of the grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon, and set the browned sausage aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the butter or oil (if needed) and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3. Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.

4. Add Potatoes & Seasonings

Stir in the cubed potatoes, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Finish with Cream & Cheese

Stir in the cooked sausage, then pour in the heavy cream. If desired, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Best Soup

• Choose waxy potatoes (like red or gold) so they hold their shape and don’t turn mushy.
• Drain excess sausage grease to keep the broth from becoming too greasy.
• Don’t skip the roux-step: sautéing flour ensures a smooth, thickened broth.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with milk or use lower-fat cheese.
• Make it ahead: the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in chopped kale or spinach at the end until wilted.
• Slow Cooker Option: Brown sausage, add all ingredients (except cream/cheese), cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cream and cheese.
• Dairy-Free Version: Omit cheese and heavy cream, use unsweetened almond milk and blend part of the potatoes for creaminess.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze in portions for up to 3 months — thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use smoked sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes — smoked sausage adds a different smoky dimension. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Does this soup freeze well?
Yes — but the cream and potatoes may separate slightly on thawing. Reheat gently and stir well.

What bread pairs well?
Crusty country bread, garlic bread, or cheesy biscuits are excellent for dipping.

Maria Canilssom

Creamy Sausage & Potato Soup

A hearty, comforting soup made with savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. Cozy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or chilly evenings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 486

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1.25 lbs red or gold potatoes, cubed
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 0.5 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
• fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• wooden spoon or spatula
• chef’s knife and cutting board
• ladle

Method

 

1. Cook the sausage in a Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon, and set sausage aside.
2. Add butter or oil if needed, then sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
4. Add potatoes, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Return cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy cream. Add cheddar cheese if using and stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Notes

Use waxy potatoes so they keep their shape. Make the roux to ensure a smooth broth. Drain excess sausage grease to prevent the soup from becoming oily. Add cheese for extra richness or omit it for a lighter soup.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re enjoying this soup and want to explore even more delicious ideas, here are some great picks from the blog!

For a cozy breakfast, try the Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal for a warm, comforting start to your morning.
Or go for something protein-packed with the Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas featuring flavorful tofu scramble.

If you’re craving something sweet, the Red Velvet Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies are pure indulgence.
While the Blueberry Greek Yogurt Parfait offers a fresh, fruity, and lighter option.

For savory favorites, you’ll love the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich for its crispy heat
Or the bold and comforting Nigerian Chicken Stew.