Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup

Hearty, Comforting, and Easy to Make

Creamy sausage and potato soup is one of those reliable meals that works when you want something filling, warming, and uncomplicated. With tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a smooth, creamy broth, this soup delivers comfort without requiring advanced techniques or specialty ingredients.

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creamy sausage and potato soup served in a bowl with herbs

The recipe is built in layers. Browning the sausage first develops flavor and depth. The potatoes simmer gently in broth, releasing starch that naturally thickens the soup. Cream is added at the end to create richness while keeping the texture balanced and smooth. The result is a hearty soup that feels satisfying without being heavy.

This is the kind of recipe that fits naturally into everyday cooking. It works for busy weeknights, slow weekends, or make-ahead lunches. The ingredients are flexible, and the soup reheats well, making it a dependable option you can return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup focuses on simple technique rather than excess ingredients.

Browning the sausage separately prevents greasiness while building a savory base. Potatoes cook until tender without breaking apart, giving the soup body and texture. Adding cream at the end keeps the broth smooth and prevents separation.

It is also highly adaptable. You can adjust thickness, add greens, or swap sausage types without changing the cooking method. The flavors deepen as it rests, which makes leftovers especially good. Whether you cook it once or add it to a regular rotation, it remains consistent and forgiving.

Ingredients You Will Need

Core Ingredients

1 lb sausage (smoked or Italian-style)
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

2 cups chopped kale or spinach
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Red pepper flakes, optional

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey sausage for a lighter option
Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creaminess
Dairy-free cream alternative if needed

How to Make Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup

Before You Begin:
Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until fully browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Add butter to the same pot. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Adjust the Texture

For a thicker soup, blend a small portion using an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

Return the sausage to the pot. Stir in the cream and simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Add greens if using and cook until wilted. Season to taste.

close up of sausage and potato soup showing creamy broth and diced potatoes

How to Serve This Soup

This soup is best served hot, straight from the pot.

For a simple meal, pair it with crusty bread or soft rolls to soak up the creamy broth. A light green salad on the side helps balance the richness.

For a heartier bowl, add shredded cheese just before serving or stir in extra greens. This soup also works well as a make-ahead lunch and reheats gently without losing its texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the potatoes can cause them to fall apart and cloud the broth.
Adding cream too early can affect the texture.
Skipping the sausage browning step reduces overall flavor.
Not tasting before serving can leave the seasoning unbalanced.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. This soup actually improves with time. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it ideal for preparing a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

How do I thicken the soup without adding cream?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or blend a small portion of the soup. Both methods thicken naturally using starch from the potatoes.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes. Sweet potatoes add mild sweetness and work well with savory sausage. The texture will be slightly softer.

What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage adds depth and richness, while Italian-style sausage gives a more traditional flavor. Both work well.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit cheese.

What vegetables can I add?
Carrots, celery, kale, or spinach all work well and can be added during simmering.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is a dependable comfort recipe that fits easily into everyday cooking. With simple ingredients, a clear method, and flexible options, it delivers consistent results without unnecessary effort. The balance of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy broth makes it satisfying without feeling heavy. Whether served for a quick dinner, prepared ahead for busy days, or enjoyed as leftovers, this soup is one you can confidently make again and again.