Dinner

Hearty Italian Sausage & Potato Chowder

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There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy potato soup to bring warmth and comfort, and this Italian sausage-infused version takes it to a whole new level! The rich, velvety broth is a perfect balance of chicken and beef stock, enhanced with garlic, onions, and fragrant thyme. Italian sausage adds a deep, savory flavor, while Yukon Gold potatoes create a soft, buttery texture. A touch of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese completes the dish, making it irresistibly smooth and indulgent. This soup is hearty enough to serve as a full meal, packed with nourishing ingredients like spinach and tomatoes for added depth. Whether you’re curling up by the fire or feeding a hungry family, this Creamy Potato Soup with Italian Sausage is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home! 🍲✨

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, loose or casings removed
  • 1 ½ lbs Yukon Gold, Russet, or Red potatoes, diced (skins on or off)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 tbsp chopped garlic
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • Fresh black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 10 oz frozen spinach, defrosted and squeezed dry
  • 15 oz can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Spray a large Dutch oven or soup pot with non-stick cooking spray over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until almost done.
  2. Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add diced potatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. If the sausage lacks drippings, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle in the flour, stir well, and then pour in the white wine. Scrape the bottom of the pot as the wine reduces. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the chicken broth, beef broth, spinach, diced tomatoes (with juice), and thyme sprigs. Bring to a simmer, cover partially, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Check if potatoes are fork-tender. Remove 1 cup of potatoes, mash them in a bowl, and return to the pot to help thicken the soup.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
  8. Remove thyme sprigs and serve hot.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The History and Origins of Potato Soup

Potatoes have been a staple ingredient in soups for centuries, dating back to the time when they were first cultivated in South America. European settlers quickly embraced potatoes as an essential ingredient in their diets due to their accessibility, affordability, and ability to provide sustenance. Over time, potato soup evolved across different cultures, with each region adding its own unique twist.

  • In Germany, Kartoffelsuppe is a traditional potato soup made with bacon, leeks, and sometimes sausage, closely resembling this Italian sausage version.
  • The Irish potato soup is a classic, using simple ingredients like potatoes, milk, and onions.
  • In the United States, potato soup is often enriched with cheese, cream, and additional proteins like ham or bacon.

What sets this particular Creamy Potato Soup with Italian Sausage apart is the bold flavor of the Italian sausage, which enhances the broth and complements the natural creaminess of potatoes. The combination of spices, garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese creates a well-rounded dish that is deeply satisfying.

What Makes This Soup Special?

1. Rich, Flavorful Broth

Unlike traditional potato soups that rely solely on a milk or cream base, this version incorporates both chicken and beef broth. The blend of two different broths adds depth and complexity, giving the soup a richer, more robust flavor.

2. The Boldness of Italian Sausage

Italian sausage is the star ingredient in this soup. With its garlic, fennel, and red pepper flakes, the sausage brings spiciness and warmth, making every bite more flavorful. Whether you choose a mild or spicy version depends on your preference, but both add an extra dimension to the dish.

3. A Perfect Balance of Textures

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this soup is its texture contrast. The soft, creamy potatoes melt in your mouth, while the crumbled sausage adds a slight chewiness. The addition of spinach and tomatoes brings a touch of freshness and variety, keeping the soup from feeling too heavy.

4. The Secret Ingredient – White Wine

A small but essential touch in this recipe is the use of dry white wine to deglaze the pot. This step enhances the soup by lifting the browned bits from the sausage, which adds umami and depth to the broth. It also balances the richness of the cream with a slight acidity.

Health Benefits of This Soup

Although this soup is creamy and indulgent, it still provides a variety of nutrients:

1. High in Protein

With Italian sausage as the main protein source, this soup is protein-rich, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage can be substituted.

2. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

The addition of spinach and tomatoes increases the vitamin and mineral content of the soup. Spinach is rich in iron, folate, and vitamin K, while tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants. Potatoes themselves are an excellent source of potassium and fiber.

3. Balanced Carbohydrates

Potatoes serve as the primary carbohydrate source, offering energy and fiber. The starch from the potatoes also helps naturally thicken the soup, reducing the need for extra flour or cream.

4. Customizable for Different Diets

This soup can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences:

  • Gluten-Free: Skip the flour or use a gluten-free thickener.
  • Low-Carb/Keto: Reduce the number of potatoes and increase the sausage and spinach.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Best Ways to Serve This Soup

1. Pair with Crusty Bread

A warm bowl of this soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette. The bread can be used for dipping, soaking up the creamy broth, and adding a satisfying crunch.

2. Serve with a Fresh Salad

To balance the richness of the soup, consider serving it with a light, refreshing salad, such as a Caesar salad, mixed greens with vinaigrette, or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing.

3. Add Toppings for Extra Flavor

For added texture and flavor, try topping the soup with:

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Red pepper flakes for a spicier kick

Tips to Customize This Recipe

1. Use Different Meats

While Italian sausage is the preferred protein, you can switch it up with:

  • Chorizo for a smoky, spicy flavor
  • Turkey sausage for a leaner version
  • Ground beef or pork for a more neutral taste

2. Make It Even Creamier

For an extra creamy consistency, blend a portion of the soup before adding the sausage back in, or stir in additional cream cheese or sour cream.

3. Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a milder soup, use mild Italian sausage and reduce the amount of black pepper. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

4. Bulk It Up with More Vegetables

To increase the fiber content and nutrition, consider adding:

  • Mushrooms
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Bell peppers

Conclusion:

This Creamy Potato Soup with Italian Sausage is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty, rich flavors with nourishing ingredients. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The boldness of the sausage, the creaminess of the broth, and the freshness of the vegetables create a well-rounded dish that appeals to a wide audience.

Not only is this soup incredibly satisfying, but it’s also customizable to suit different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or just to warm up on a chilly day, this savory, creamy soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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