This cozy soup is filled with tasty Italian sausage, hearty potatoes, and flavorful herbs. It’s warm and filling, perfect for chilly days when you need a hug in a bowl!
Honestly, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of this soup on a cold night. I like to pair it with some crusty bread for dunking. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well and reduces fat.
Potatoes: Yukon Golds are my favorite for their creamy texture. However, Russet potatoes or even sweet potatoes can be great substitutes if you want a slightly different flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice green touch. If you don’t have any, kale or Swiss chard can be used instead. Just chop it well and add it in the same way.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. You can even skip the cream for a dairy-free version and just add extra broth or a splash of coconut milk for richness.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the potatoes just right is key to a good soup. They should be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Choose similar-sized potato cubes for even cooking.
- Once you add the potatoes, let the soup boil first, then reduce to a simmer.
- Check for doneness by poking them with a fork after about 15 minutes. They should be soft but still hold their shape!
If you overcook them, they might fall apart, so keep a close watch during the cooking process!
How Can I Make This Soup More Flavorful?
Enhancing the flavors of your soup is simple! Here are my tips:
- Using quality chicken broth or homemade stock adds depth. If you’re using low-sodium broth, adjust the salt later.
- Letting the soup simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully, but if you’re in a hurry, it will still taste good!
- Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar right before serving for a pop of freshness.
Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water or additional broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 45 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but still feels special enough for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the sausage using a slotted spoon and set it aside, but keep the rendered fat in the pot—this adds flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and diced carrots to the pot. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften. This step helps build the base flavor of the soup.
3. Add Aromatics and Seasoning:
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook everything together for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant. It’s the moment when your kitchen starts smelling wonderful!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the diced potatoes and the browned sausage back into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring everything together to combine. This will create the heart of your soup.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender. Make sure to check them with a fork!
6. Add the Spinach:
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the chopped spinach. Let it wilt in the soup for about 2-3 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutrition!
7. Cream It Up:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gently heat the soup through without bringing it to a boil after adding the cream. Season generously with salt and pepper to suit your taste. This is where it gets creamy and delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side. Enjoy every bite of your delicious and cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup!
This soup is perfect for chilly days, or whenever you need something comforting. Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or even a different type of sausage like chorizo for added spice and flavor. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly!
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The soup may thicken when stored, so you can add a splash of broth or water while reheating to reach desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also omit the cream or replace it with coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
What Can I Use Instead of Spinach?
If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard works wonderfully! Just chop them roughly and add them in the same way. Frozen spinach is another option; just add it in the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
