Nothing says comfort like a warm, creamy bowl of Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Soup. With every spoonful, you get the perfect balance of smoky Andouille sausage, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, all tied together in a rich, savory broth. It’s an effortless meal that fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma as it slow cooks to perfection. This soup is ideal for chilly nights, busy weekdays, or meal prep for the week. The combination of simple ingredients and set-it-and-forget-it convenience makes it a must-have recipe for any slow cooker lover. Serve it with warm bread, a fresh salad, or on its own it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups sliced Andouille sausage, sautéed until slightly browned
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup onions, diced
- 4 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp garlic pepper or black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- Fresh-cut parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, add potatoes, sausage, vegetable broth, corn, onions, garlic, garlic salt, garlic pepper, and onion powder. Cook on low for 6 hours.
- 30 minutes before cooking is done, whisk together cornstarch and milk. Pour into the slow cooker, stir, cover, and finish cooking.
- Once done, add grated cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir well until cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 661 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is the epitome of effortless cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself. The combination of creamy potatoes, smoky Andouille sausage, and melted cheddar cheese creates an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Plus, the slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.
Here are some of the top reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- Easy Preparation: The slow cooker does most of the work for you, making it a fantastic option for busy days. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let it work its magic.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The smoky Andouille sausage, combined with creamy potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese, creates a bold, well-balanced taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
- A Family Favorite: The rich and cheesy flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad, and you have a complete meal.
The Magic of Slow Cooking
One of the biggest advantages of making this soup in a slow cooker is the ability to develop deep, complex flavors over time. Unlike stovetop cooking, where you constantly have to monitor the pot, the slow cooker allows the ingredients to simmer at a low and steady temperature, bringing out their natural flavors and tenderness.
The slow cooking method also helps the potatoes soften perfectly without becoming mushy. The Andouille sausage, which is already packed with seasoning, infuses the broth with smoky, spicy goodness. As the soup simmers, the flavors blend together, creating a deliciously creamy texture without needing a heavy cream base.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
While this soup is simple to make, choosing high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what to look for:
- Sausage: Andouille sausage is the best choice for this recipe due to its bold, smoky flavor. However, if you prefer something milder, kielbasa or Italian sausage can work well too.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly, creating a naturally thick and creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option for a slightly firmer bite.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy, rich flavor that complements the smokiness of the sausage. Always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for better melting.
- Broth: Vegetable broth provides a light, savory base, but chicken broth can also be used for added depth.
- Milk & Cornstarch: This combination is used instead of heavy cream to create a thick, creamy consistency without making the soup overly heavy.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this soup is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Make It Spicier: If you love heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using a spicier variety of sausage.
- Go Lighter: Swap out the whole milk for a lower-fat alternative or use a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in some chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition. Spinach or kale can also be tossed in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar works beautifully, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheese for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make It Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels on your sausage and broth to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Soup
This soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: A warm slice of sourdough or a toasted baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: The garlicky, buttery flavors complement the smoky sausage beautifully.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing this soup with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich creates the ultimate comfort meal.
If you’re serving this soup for a crowd, consider setting up a “soup bar” with a variety of toppings, such as extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and croutons, so everyone can customize their bowl.
Storing and Reheating
This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze it, let the soup cool and then store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label it with the date and use it within 4 to 6 months.
- Reheating: When reheating, warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion
Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup isn’t just a great weeknight dinner it’s also an excellent dish for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for hosting, as you can let it simmer while you focus on other tasks.
Additionally, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal for meal prepping. Simply cook a batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out into containers, and have a delicious, hearty lunch or dinner ready to go whenever you need it.
Conclusion:
There’s a reason why Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is a favorite among home cooks. It’s simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of creamy potatoes, smoky sausage, and melted cheese creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a meal that everyone will love.
With its versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting appeal, this soup is one you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night, serving it to guests, or preparing it for a busy week ahead, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
