Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup Comforting and Hearty Meal

November 14, 2025February 27, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup. This list makes it easy to gather all items before you start cooking.

– 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed

– 4 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a key role. The Italian sausage gives rich flavor. Potatoes add heartiness and texture. Onion and garlic bring depth. Chicken broth forms the soup base. Heavy cream and cheddar make it creamy and cheesy. Seasonings like thyme and paprika add warmth and spice. Olive oil helps sauté, while green onions add a fresh touch on top.

With this list, you’re ready to create a comforting bowl of soup!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers.

2. Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and fragrant.

3. Increase the heat a bit and add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook for 6-8 minutes until it is deep brown and fully cooked.

4. Next, mix in the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well so the potatoes get coated.

Simmering the Soup

1. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a rolling boil.

2. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is when the potatoes become soft enough to pierce with a fork.

Finalizing the Dish

1. When the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy soup.

2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Ingredient Substitutions

– Alternative sausage options: If you prefer a milder flavor, use chicken sausage. For a spicy kick, try chorizo. Both options work well in this soup.

– Dairy-free substitutes for cream and cheese: You can swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a rich taste. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Cooking Tips

– Ensuring sausage is well-cooked: Cook the sausage until it is deep brown. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, ensuring it cooks evenly. This adds great flavor to the soup.

– Tips for achieving creamy consistency: Stir in the cream and cheese slowly. This way, they melt evenly, making the soup rich and smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash of broth.

Presentation Tips

– Garnishing with green onions: Slicing green onions adds color and freshness. Sprinkle them on top right before serving for a bright finish.

– Best serving suggestions with sides: Serve this soup in sturdy bowls. Pair it with crusty bread or warm rolls. They help soak up the creamy goodness and make the meal more filling.

Variations

Add-In Options

You can make Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup even better by adding fresh veggies. Good choices are:

– Carrots, diced small

– Spinach or kale, chopped

– Corn, frozen or fresh

– Bell peppers, diced

Each veggie adds flavor and texture. They also boost the soup’s nutrition.

For spices, try these to enhance the taste:

– A pinch of cayenne for heat

– A dash of oregano for warmth

– Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for brightness

These spices give your soup a unique twist. Mixing in these options keeps your meal exciting.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, make sure to use gluten-free sausage. Check the broth too. Many brands are gluten-free.

For a low-fat version, swap heavy cream for:

– Reduced-fat milk

– Unsweetened almond milk

– Half-and-half

You can also use less cheese. This still keeps the soup creamy, just lighter. These changes make it fit your needs without losing flavor.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

After you enjoy your Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh for up to four days in the fridge. When reheating, use a pot on medium heat. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can also microwave it, but cover the bowl to prevent splatters. Heat it until hot, then enjoy it again!

Freezing the Soup

If you want to save the soup for later, freezing is a great option. Let the soup cool completely before you freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup lasts up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing. After thawing, reheat as mentioned before for best results.

FAQs

How to make Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup spicier?

You can add some heat by using spicy sausage. You can also mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you want more heat, add a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Can I use tender potatoes like Yukon Gold for this recipe?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well in this soup. They have a creamy texture and cook nicely. Their flavor blends well with the sausage and cheese. Feel free to use them instead of regular potatoes.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. You can also serve it with a light salad for balance. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a nice touch too. These sides make your meal more filling.

How do I thicken my soup if it is too thin?

If your soup is too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes. This will make the soup thicker without changing the flavor. You can also add a bit more cheese or cream for extra thickness. Just stir it in until you reach the desired consistency.

This blog post covered how to make a hearty Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup. We looked at the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for success, variations to try, and storage methods. Now, you have all the tools to create this delicious dish. Remember, you can change ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with others. It’s a comforting meal for any time of year. Happy cookin