Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe Easy Cozy Comfort in 30 Minutes

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Let me tell you, the scent of sizzling sausage mingling with tender potatoes and rich cream wafting from my stovetop is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I made this creamy sausage and potato soup, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. It was a chilly evening years ago when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, and my grandma would simmer her secret recipe on the stove, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma that felt like a hug in a bowl.

You know what? I wish I’d discovered this recipe years ago because it’s dangerously easy and delivers pure, nostalgic comfort every single time. My family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls off the pot (and I can’t really blame them). Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for your kids after school or a soul-soothing supper to brighten a dreary day, this creamy sausage and potato soup is perfect for potlucks, cozy dinners, or just when you need a little extra warmth in your life.

Honestly, I’ve tested this recipe multiple times in the name of research, of course, and it’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting during the colder months. It feels like a warm hug wrapped in a bowl, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one for all those times when comfort food is non-negotiable.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

As someone who’s spent years experimenting with soup recipes in my kitchen, I can say this creamy sausage and potato soup stands out for all the right reasons. Tested, family-approved, and simple to whip up, here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings when you want something hearty without the hassle.
  • Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery runs needed; you likely already have everything in your pantry or fridge.
  • Perfect for Cozy Dinners: This soup brings warmth and comfort, ideal for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike — especially those who love savory, creamy flavors.
  • Unbelievably Delicious: The marriage of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and tender potatoes creates a texture and flavor combo that’s pure comfort food magic.

What makes this recipe different? Well, the secret lies in the perfectly balanced seasoning, a splash of cream that isn’t overdone, and the way the potatoes soak up all those savory flavors without turning mushy. Plus, I like to brown the sausage just right so it adds a little crispness and depth you don’t find in other soups. This isn’t just any creamy sausage and potato soup — it’s my best version, and it’s ready to impress without stress.

Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and say, “Yep, that’s the good stuff.”

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy sausage and potato soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, and many can be swapped easily if needed.

  • Italian sausage: 1 pound (450 g), casings removed for easy browning (I recommend using a good-quality sweet or mild Italian sausage like Johnsonville for the best flavor)
  • Potatoes: 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold works great for creaminess)
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (adds a subtle sweetness)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (for that savory punch)
  • Chicken broth: 4 cups (950 ml) — homemade or low-sodium store-bought works fine
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml) — adds richness and smooth texture (feel free to try half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons (adds a lovely depth)
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons (to thicken the soup gently)
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste (freshly ground pepper makes a big difference)
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional, for garnish and a pop of color)
  • Red pepper flakes: a pinch (optional, if you like a touch of heat)

If you want to keep it dairy-free, swap the cream and butter with coconut cream and olive oil, respectively. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening. In the summer, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary complement the flavors beautifully if you want to switch things up.

Equipment Needed

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven — great for even heating and simmering the soup without burning
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping potatoes and veggies
  • Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts
  • Optional: potato peeler to speed up peeling

I’ve tried this recipe with both non-stick and stainless steel pots, and honestly, a heavy-bottomed pot makes all the difference to avoid scorching the cream. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large saucepan with a lid works just fine. For budget-friendly options, many kitchen stores carry basic heavy pans that get the job done without breaking the bank. Just keep your utensils handy for scraping and stirring to prevent sticking.

Preparation Method

creamy sausage and potato soup preparation steps

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Peel and dice 4 medium potatoes into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Remove the casing from 1 pound (450 g) of Italian sausage so it crumbles easily.
  2. Brown the sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in your heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with your spoon, until nicely browned and cooked through. You want some crispy bits here and there — that’s flavor gold. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a bowl, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage drippings. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
  4. Add the flour: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw taste. This step helps thicken your soup later.
  5. Pour in the broth: Slowly add 4 cups (950 ml) of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Add the potatoes: Toss in the diced potatoes and return the browned sausage to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  7. Finish with cream and seasoning: Stir in 1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let everything marry together.
  8. Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh, bright touch.

Pro tip: If your soup feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered to reduce. The potatoes should be soft but still hold their shape — mushy potatoes mean you went too far!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Let’s face it, creamy sausage and potato soup sounds simple, but a few tricks make it truly shine. First, browning the sausage well adds a deep, savory flavor that’s absolutely worth the extra minute or two. Don’t rush this step — those crispy bits are flavor gold.

Next, when adding the flour, stirring constantly and cooking it a bit before adding broth prevents that raw flour taste and ensures a silky texture. I’ve made the mistake of adding flour straight into the broth once (ugh), and it left lumps — not fun.

Simmer the potatoes just right. I’ve learned that Yukon Gold potatoes hold up better and give a creamier bite than russets, which can fall apart too quickly. Also, stirring gently after adding cream keeps the soup velvety without separating.

Timing is everything here. While the potatoes cook, you can prep your garnish or set the table — multitasking is your friend. Finally, don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness.

Variations & Adaptations

  • Spicy Kick: Swap mild Italian sausage for spicy or add extra red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives; use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly twist — adjust cooking time as cauliflower cooks faster.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and swap butter for olive oil or vegan margarine.
  • Herbal Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmer for a fragrant variation I personally love on lazy Sunday nights.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy sausage and potato soup is best served hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. I like to ladle it into rustic bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and a grind of black pepper — simple but inviting.

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slowly.

Keep in mind, the flavors meld and deepen after a day or two, so leftovers can actually taste even better. Just stir well before serving to recombine the creaminess.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy sausage and potato soup packs a good balance of protein from the sausage and complex carbs from the potatoes, making it satisfying and filling. One serving (about 1.5 cups or 360 ml) roughly contains:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 350-400 kcal
Protein 18-22 g
Fat 25 g (mostly from sausage and cream)
Carbohydrates 20-25 g
Fiber 2-3 g

Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C, while the sausage adds iron and B vitamins. If you’re mindful of sodium, opt for low-sodium broth and adjust added salt accordingly. This recipe can easily fit into a gluten-free or low-carb diet with simple substitutions.

Conclusion

All in all, this creamy sausage and potato soup is a must-try for anyone craving cozy comfort without fuss. It’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor — plus, it’s super adaptable to whatever you have on hand or your dietary needs. I love this recipe because it reminds me of home and those chilly nights when a warm bowl of soup feels like everything’s right with the world.

Give it a go, and don’t be shy about tweaking it to your taste. I’d love to hear how you make it your own — drop your comments or share your twists below. Trust me, once you try this creamy sausage and potato soup, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Stay cozy, friends.

FAQs About Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

What’s the best sausage to use?

I recommend sweet or mild Italian sausage for balanced flavor, but spicy sausage works great if you like heat.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Fresh potatoes yield the best texture, but if you’re in a pinch, thaw frozen diced potatoes before adding to the soup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written due to the flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make it safe for gluten-free diets.

How can I make this soup creamier without heavy cream?

Try using half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Adding a bit of cream cheese can also boost creaminess.

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Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup

A quick and easy creamy sausage and potato soup that delivers cozy comfort in under 30 minutes, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.

  • Author: savannah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice 4 medium potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Remove the casing from 1 pound of Italian sausage so it crumbles easily.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until nicely browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a bowl, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage drippings. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw taste.
  5. Slowly add 4 cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Add the diced potatoes and return the browned sausage to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  7. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.

Notes

If soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. If too thin, simmer uncovered a few extra minutes. Yukon Gold potatoes hold up better and give creamier texture than russets. Browning sausage well adds flavor. Stir flour constantly to avoid lumps. Fresh parsley adds a bright finish.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 1.5 cups (360
  • Calories: 375
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 600
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 22
  • Fiber: 2.5
  • Protein: 20

Keywords: creamy sausage soup, potato soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, quick dinner, Italian sausage soup

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