There is something magical about a bowl of Sausage Potato Soup: it’s rich and creamy, with savory sausage and soft potatoes in every spoonful, balanced by pops of sweet carrot and sharp cheddar. One bite and it feels like a big, warm hug on a cold night. This is the kind of soup people request by name after just one taste—perfect for hectic weeknights or lazy Sunday suppers. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this soup brings so much flavor and comfort to the table, nobody will believe how simple it is to make.

Sausage Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sausage Potato Soup is how it uses just a handful of everyday ingredients, yet creates an amazing blend of flavors and textures. Each component has its moment to shine: the sausage infuses heartiness, the vegetables add color and sweetness, and the creamy, cheesy broth ties it all together.

Ground Italian sausage (1 lb): Mild or spicy adds richness and plenty of flavor—choose your favorite based on the kick you want!
Onion (1 medium, diced): Brings a sweet foundation to the broth and smells divine while cooking.
Carrots (2, peeled & diced): Brightens the soup with color and subtle sweetness in each bite.
Celery (2 stalks, diced): Adds a gentle crunch and classic soup aroma.
Garlic (3–4 cloves, minced): Gives the soup an aromatic depth—fresh garlic really makes a difference!
Potatoes (4 medium, peeled & diced): The heart of the dish, turning tender and creamy as they simmer.
Chicken broth (4 cups): Builds the base of the soup and enhances every flavor.
Half-and-half or heavy cream (1 cup): For irresistible richness and that dreamy, creamy finish.
All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Just enough to lend a luxuriously thick texture.
Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into the broth for bold flavor and velvety texture.
Dried thyme (1 tsp) or fresh thyme (2 sprigs): Adds herbal brightness—dried works in a pinch but fresh makes it extra special.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp): This bit of smokiness completely transforms the flavor—don’t skip it.
Salt & pepper, to taste: For perfect seasoning at every step.
Olive oil or butter (2 tbsp): A touch of fat for sautéing veggies to golden perfection.
Fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish): The finishing touch that makes every bowl look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crumbly and caramelized—this builds the flavor base of the soup. Once fully cooked, use a slotted spoon to set the sausage aside, leaving a bit of that tasty fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

If your pot looks a little dry, add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more; you’ll smell the difference as the garlic blooms. This step creates a savory, aromatic foundation for your Sausage Potato Soup.

Step 3: Add Potatoes & Broth

Add the diced potatoes straight into the pot, along with the thyme, smoked paprika, a good pinch of salt, and some pepper. Give everything a good stir to coat the veggies and potatoes in the seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let the pot simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk the flour into the half-and-half or heavy cream until completely smooth—no lumps allowed. Slowly pour this creamy mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. Cook for another 5 minutes as the soup thickens just enough to feel decadent but not heavy.

Step 5: Cheesy Finish

Add the browned sausage back into the pot and stir everything together. Sprinkle in the sharp cheddar cheese, stirring patiently until it melts into the soup and the broth turns irresistibly velvety. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper. At this point, you’ll see why Sausage Potato Soup is hard to resist!

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, then finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme. Pair with crusty bread or fluffy biscuits, and serve steaming hot for the ultimate comfort meal.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top each bowl of Sausage Potato Soup with freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of thyme for instant color and fresh flavor. A light scatter of extra cheddar or a crack of black pepper can make each serving feel even more special, elevating every bowl from simple to stunning.

Side Dishes

This soup shines with classic sides like warm, crusty bread (perfect for dipping!) or a batch of buttery biscuits. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil—these sides make it a complete and memorable meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, ladle Sausage Potato Soup into small mugs for a cozy appetizer, or serve in bread bowls for extra heartiness. Hosting a get-together? Set up a soup bar with bowls of toppings like shredded cheese, chopped scallions, or crumbled bacon so everyone can customize their own perfect bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sausage Potato Soup keeps beautifully. Simply let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days—if anything, the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

For longer storage, pour completely cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that creamy soups can separate slightly when frozen, but a good stir during reheating brings them back to life.

Reheating

Reheat Sausage Potato Soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often until hot and creamy again. If needed, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the texture. For single servings, microwaving works well too—just heat in short bursts and stir in between for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is classic for Sausage Potato Soup, you can swap in smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even a meat-free alternative if you prefer—just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match your sausage style.

What kind of potatoes work best in this soup?

Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are both great choices, as they become deliciously tender without falling apart. If you like a firmer texture, opt for red potatoes and leave the skins on for rustic flair.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can! Use coconut cream or a plant-based half-and-half and substitute your favorite non-dairy cheese. The soup will still be rich and creamy, just with a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I spice it up?

If you crave more heat, use hot Italian sausage and toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the veggies. For smoky depth, add a little extra smoked paprika—customize to your heart’s content!

Will this soup thicken as it sits?

Yes, Sausage Potato Soup tends to become thicker after chilling due to the potatoes and cheese. If it gets too thick, just stir in a bit more broth, milk, or cream when reheating until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes bring as much comfort and cheer to the table as Sausage Potato Soup. With its bold, familiar flavors and supremely satisfying texture, it’s a must-try whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-soothing bowl on a lazy afternoon. Give it a try—and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Sausage Potato Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: Elina
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and hearty sausage potato soup recipe that is loaded with sausage, tender potatoes, vegetables, and a rich cheesy broth, making it perfect for a cozy dinner night.

Ingredients

Ground Italian Sausage:

1 lb

Onion:

1 medium, diced

Carrots:

2, peeled & diced

Celery Stalks:

2, diced

Garlic Cloves:

3-4, minced

Potatoes:

4 medium, peeled & diced

Chicken Broth:

4 cups

Half-and-Half:

1 cup

All-Purpose Flour:

2 tbsp

Sharp Cheddar Cheese:

1 cup, shredded

Dried Thyme:

1 tsp

Smoked Paprika:

1/2 tsp

Salt & Pepper:

To taste

Olive Oil or Butter: