If you’re craving something that wraps you up in warmth and comfort, this Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder (Easy One-Pot Comfort) Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender potatoes simmered in a rich, smoky broth with savory sausage, all coming together in a creamy, dreamy chowder that cooks right in your favorite pot. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this chowder offers a cozy, hearty meal with minimal fuss—just simple ingredients creating maximum flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this chowder so irresistible is its list of simple, straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in texture, flavor, and color. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of richness, from the tender potatoes to the fragrant herbs and the velvety cream.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base to brown the sausage and soften the aromatics.
- Ground or sliced sausage: Brings smoky, savory depth—choose pork, turkey, or chicken to suit your taste.
- Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and shapes the flavor foundation.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the chowder with an inviting warmth and aromatic punch.
- Yukon Gold or russet potatoes: These starchy heroes give body and creaminess once cooked.
- Chicken broth: Acts as the flavorful liquid base tying everything together.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the signature creamy texture that makes this a comfort classic.
- Dried thyme: Adds a hint of earthy, herbal brightness.
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky undertone complementing the sausage perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Optional add-ins (corn, cheddar, parsley/chives): Customize the chowder with pops of sweetness, melty cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flair.
How to Make Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder (Easy One-Pot Comfort) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add your sausage—whether ground or sliced—and cook until it turns golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. This step is where that deep, smoky flavor begins to develop, so don’t rush it! If there’s too much fat released, feel free to drain some off to keep the chowder balanced.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This builds a savory aroma that’s absolutely irresistible and forms the heart of your chowder’s flavor profile.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Spices, and Broth
Now, add the peeled and diced potatoes along with dried thyme and smoked paprika to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring everything to a boil. The potatoes will start absorbing those beautiful herbs and spices as the chowder takes shape.
Step 4: Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender
Reduce the heat and let your chowder simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes become fork-tender. This slow simmer is key—it allows all the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften perfectly while thickening the broth.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Finish
Finally, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes to marry the creaminess with all those savory flavors. Taste your chowder and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you want to experiment, add a cup of corn kernels or some shredded cheddar for extra bite. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to add a fresh pop of color and flavor before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder (Easy One-Pot Comfort) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives not only brightens up the bowl visually but also adds a subtle herbal freshness that perfectly balances the chowder’s rich creaminess. For a little extra indulgence, grated cheddar cheese melting on top is always a welcome addition.
Side Dishes
Serve this chowder with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a fresh green salad to round out your meal. The soft bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop, while a crisp salad complements the chowder’s richness with refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, cozy presentation that’s as delicious as it looks. You can also ladle it over a baked potato or pair it alongside roasted vegetables to elevate the one-pot comfort meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even better. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This chowder freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to preserve its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chowder over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure it warms evenly. If it thickens too much during storage, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to revive that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Pork sausage is traditional, but turkey or chicken sausage work well too. For a spicier chowder, try using a spicy sausage variety.
Is there a way to make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk to keep it creamy without the dairy. It adds a slightly different but delicious flavor twist.
What if I don’t have Yukon Gold or russet potatoes?
Any starchy potato works, though Yukon Gold have a nice buttery texture, and russets break down beautifully to thicken the chowder. Sweet potatoes could also be an interesting twist for a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Definitely! This chowder holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Just reheat gently on the stove and add a little extra broth or cream if it feels too thick.
What are good toppings to dress up this chowder?
Shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, chopped herbs like parsley or chives, and a dollop of sour cream make fantastic toppings to add texture and brighten the flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder (Easy One-Pot Comfort) Recipe enough as a go-to dish for cozy nights and simple, satisfying dinners. Its effortless prep, rich flavors, and heartwarming creaminess make it a real crowd-pleaser. So grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
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Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder (Easy One-Pot Comfort) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Potato Sausage Chowder is a rich and comforting one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including sausage, potatoes, and a creamy broth, this hearty soup is smoky, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Optional add-ins like corn and cheddar elevate the dish further, making it a versatile family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground or sliced sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Cook Sausage: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground or sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant, which builds the flavor base of the chowder.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Potatoes: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes become fork-tender, which ensures they are cooked through but still maintain some texture.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Add Optional Ingredients and Garnish: If desired, add corn kernels or shredded cheddar cheese at this stage, allowing them to heat through or melt. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color and taste. Serve the chowder hot for maximum comfort.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture with a subtle coconut flavor.
- Use spicy sausage to add a bold, smoky kick or swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter twist.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze safely for up to 2 months, making it ideal for meal prep.
- To naturally thicken the chowder, mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot before serving for a creamier consistency.
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