This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a comforting dish that combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant greens in a creamy broth. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or any occasion where you desire a hearty meal. The blend of flavors offers a unique twist on traditional soup recipes, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be made in just under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and spices brings depth to the soup, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the greens or adjust the spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking or leftovers.
• Comforting & Filling: The creamy broth and hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, allowing your soup to simmer perfectly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot while giving you control over breaking up the sausage.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients ensures consistent flavor every time you make this soup.

this recipe

Ingredients

This delicious Italian sausage and potato soup combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant greens in a creamy broth, perfect for chilly evenings.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, according to preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water

For the Vegetables

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Finish

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Serving

• 2 cups kale, chopped (or spinach as an alternative)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, grated for serving (optional)

How to Make Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Add the chicken broth and water to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Potatoes

Once boiling, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Sausage

Once the potatoes are cooked through, return the reserved sausage to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 7: Add Greens

Add chopped kale (or spinach) into the mixture. Let it cook until wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 8: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top along with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful bowl of Italian Sausage and Potato Soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Serving Italian sausage and potato soup can elevate your meal, making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness to your meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing the soup with fresh parsley or basil enhances its flavor profile and adds a pop of color.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible presentation that everyone will love.

Include Grated Cheese

• Offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to customize their servings while adding an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Making the perfect Italian sausage and potato soup is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious result.

• Use high-quality sausage: Choosing fresh Italian sausage will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Sauté vegetables thoroughly: Properly sautéing onions and garlic brings out their sweetness, creating a rich base for your soup.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper, ensuring balanced flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Simmer for depth: Allowing the soup to simmer helps develop deeper flavors; don’t rush this step.
• Experiment with greens: While kale is traditional, feel free to try other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for variety.
• Cool before storing: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool before refrigerating for best storage results.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that go well with Italian sausage and potato soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread infused with garlic butter complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a nice contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make for a filling side that’s both nutritious and tasty.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful touch of sweetness that balances out the savory notes of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Italian Sausage and Potato Soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a soup lacking depth of flavor. Always take the time to soften them before adding liquids.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup results in bland flavors. Taste as you go, and adjust salt and pepper at each stage.
• Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Monitor their tenderness to keep them perfectly cooked but not falling apart.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or cream can shock the soup. Warm them slightly before adding to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Neglecting Greens: Overcooking kale or spinach can make them lose their vibrant color and nutrients. Add them towards the end for optimal texture and appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Sausage and Potato Soup:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option without compromising flavor.

How do I thicken Italian Sausage and Potato Soup?

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost in addition to the existing ingredients.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Its versatility means you can easily customize it with different greens or spices based on your preference. Don’t hesitate; try making this hearty soup today!

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Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a soul-warming dish that brings together savory sausage, hearty potatoes, and vibrant greens in a creamy broth. Perfect for chilly nights or any time you’re craving comfort food, this recipe not only delights the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with enticing aromas.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken sausage (mild or hot)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups kale (or spinach), chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
3. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) along with salt and black pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and water; bring to a boil.
5. Add diced potatoes, reduce heat to simmer, and cook until tender (15-20 minutes).
6. Return cooked sausage to the pot and mix well.
7. Add chopped kale (or spinach) and cook until wilted (3-5 minutes).
8. Stir in heavy cream; simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: For added richness, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Feel free to experiment with different greens like Swiss chard or spinach based on your preference. To thicken the soup further, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot.