Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup Creamy and Hearty Delight

November 14, 2025June 3, 2025 by Chef Jamie

Ingredients

Complete list of ingredients

– 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed

– 4 medium potatoes, diced

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Ingredient features and substitutions

Each ingredient plays a key role in the soup’s flavor and texture. The Italian sausage adds a nice, savory kick. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead. Potatoes give the soup its hearty feel. I recommend using Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. Garlic and onion add depth. For a twist, try shallots instead of onion.

Heavy cream makes the soup rich and smooth. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk works too, but the soup will be less thick. Cheddar cheese is essential for that cheesy goodness. You can also mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Dried thyme and smoked paprika bring warmth. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them!

Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Always taste and adjust to your liking. Olive oil helps to sauté the veggies and sausage, giving it a nice base. You can substitute it with butter if you prefer. Green onions add freshness at the end. You can leave them out if you want.

Nutritional info and health benefits

This cheesy sausage potato soup packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition. Each serving contains around 400 calories, depending on your ingredient choices. The potatoes offer fiber and potassium, which are good for your heart. The sausage provides protein, helping to keep you full.

Dairy from the cream and cheese gives calcium, which is vital for strong bones. Garlic can boost your immune system and may help fight off colds. The spices, like thyme and paprika, have antioxidants that contribute to overall health.

Overall, this soup is not just tasty, but it also brings comfort and nutrients to your meal. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation steps

To start making cheesy sausage potato soup, gather all your ingredients. You need:

– 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed

– 4 medium potatoes, diced

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Wash and chop the potatoes, onion, and garlic. This step makes cooking easier. Next, remove the sausage from its casing. This helps it break apart while cooking.

Cooking process overview

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns soft. Next, add the Italian sausage. Cook it for 6-8 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked. Stir in the diced potatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the potatoes with flavors.

Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check the potatoes with a fork. They should be tender. After the potatoes are cooked, add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup turns creamy.

Tips for ensuring the soup is creamy

To make sure your soup is creamy, consider these tips:

– Use heavy cream for the best texture.

– Add cheese slowly and stir well. This helps it melt evenly.

– Ensure potatoes are tender before adding cream. This keeps the soup smooth.

– Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream. Doing this can cause it to curdle.

These steps will help you achieve a rich and creamy soup every time. Enjoy the process and savor the great flavors!

Tips & Tricks

Best practices for flavor enhancement

To boost the taste of your cheesy sausage potato soup, focus on fresh ingredients. Start with high-quality Italian sausage for rich flavor. Use fresh garlic and onions; they add depth. Don’t skip the smoked paprika; it brings a lovely warmth. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for a kick. Consider tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. These small steps can elevate your soup.

How to thicken or lighten the soup

If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes. Just take a few cooked potato pieces and mash them with a fork. Stir them back in for a creamy texture. Another option is adding more cheese, which adds flavor too. If you’re looking to lighten the soup, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. This keeps it creamy but reduces the calories.

Serving suggestions and accompaniments

Serve your soup in big, warm bowls. Top it with extra cheddar cheese and sliced green onions. For a delightful pairing, offer crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. A fresh salad can also make a great addition. If you want to add a bit of zing, try a dollop of sour cream on top. Enjoying the soup with friends or family makes it even better.

Variations

Spicy cheesy sausage potato soup

To make a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon of flakes and adjust to your taste. This adds a nice kick without overpowering the soup. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild sausage for extra heat. Don’t forget to keep the cheese, as it balances the spice well.

Vegetarian adaptation ideas

For a vegetarian twist, swap the sausage for lentils or mushrooms. Use a plant-based sausage for a similar flavor and texture. You can also add more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or kale. They will boost both flavor and nutrition. Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Suggestions for seasonal or local ingredients

In spring, add asparagus or fresh peas for a pop of color and taste. In the fall, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor. If you have access to local farms, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or chives. They can really elevate the dish and make it feel special.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers properly

To store leftovers, first let the soup cool. Pour it into an airtight container. Leave some space at the top, as soup can expand when frozen. Seal the container tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Keeping it cold helps the flavors stay fresh.

Freezing instructions and tips

You can freeze cheesy sausage potato soup for later use. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to label each bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best taste.

Reheating methods for best taste

To reheat the soup, use a pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir it often to prevent burning. If it seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy it warm with fresh toppings!

FAQs

How long can I store cheesy sausage potato soup?

You can store cheesy sausage potato soup for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool the soup first. Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses if you want. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese can work well. Each cheese will give the soup a unique taste. Just remember to adjust the amount based on how strong you want the flavor to be.

What can I serve with cheesy sausage potato soup?

Cheesy sausage potato soup goes well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a tasty twist. A light green salad adds freshness to the meal. Enjoy it with your favorite drink for a complete dining experience!

This blog post covered everything you need for a delicious cheesy sausage potato soup. We explored ingredients, including healthy swaps, and outlined easy steps for preparation and cooking. Practical tips enhanced flavor and texture, plus variations offered creative ideas. We also shared how to store and reheat leftovers to keep them fresh.

In closing, this soup is tasty, easy to make, and perfect for sharing. Enjoy making it your own with personal twists. Happy cookin