This cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, soft potatoes, and flavorful herbs, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how easy it is to make. Just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing—like Italy on a plate! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too.
Potatoes: I used Russet potatoes for their creamy texture, but you can swap them for Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a twist! Remember to peel and dice them evenly for even cooking.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. If you don’t have it, kale or Swiss chard are good alternatives. Just chop them up and add them at the same time.
Heavy Cream: For richness, heavy cream is perfect. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Get the Sausage to Brown Perfectly?
Getting that lovely brown color on the sausage is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot on medium before adding olive oil. This helps to create a nice sear.
- Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into pieces as it cooks. Don’t rush it—let it sit undisturbed for a minute to brown.
- Stir occasionally, letting it brown on all sides. When it’s fully cooked, remove it and let the drippings add flavor to your veggies.
This technique enhances the overall taste of the soup, making it more satisfying!
Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot using a slotted spoon and set it aside, but leave the tasty drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add Spices and Sausage Back In:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Pour in the Broth and Potatoes:
Add the chicken broth and diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Final Touches:
When the potatoes are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. This is where it gets creamy and wonderful!
6. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with fresh crusty bread if desired.
Enjoy your warm, flavorful bowl of Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option. Just be sure to season it well with herbs and spices to boost the flavor!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some extra beans or lentils for protein.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just cool it completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.