There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of comforting soup to lift your spirits, and this Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe does exactly that. Loaded with hearty Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and a luscious, creamy broth, it’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a big, cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re gathering friends for a casual dinner or just craving something soul-warming on a chilly day, this recipe delivers on taste, richness, and pure satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From savory sausage to crisp spinach, everything comes together effortlessly to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed: Provides the hearty, savory base and a wonderful depth of flavor that’s key to the soup’s character.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and soften the onions, adding a smooth richness to every spoonful.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a gentle warmth and complexity that elevates the overall flavor.
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Give the soup body and a creamy texture once simmered, perfectly soaking up the broth’s goodness.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Acts as a flavorful, savory liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Adds a luscious, velvety creaminess that makes this soup unforgettable.
- 2 cups chopped spinach: Brings vibrant color and a fresh, leafy brightness that balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that injects authentic Mediterranean flavor throughout the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice that keeps each bite interesting.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): A nutty, salty finish that crowns the creamy soup perfectly when served.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Let it brown nicely, which locks in those savory flavors you’ll taste throughout the soup. Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside—this step creates a delicious base and leaves behind flavorful drippings for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Into the same pot, toss in your diced yellow onions. Let them soften gently for about 3 to 4 minutes, soaking up all those rich sausage drippings. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This combination wakes up your kitchen with incredible aromas and builds the foundation for the rest of the hearty soup.
Step 3: Simmer Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced russet potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper right into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered. Keep this gentle bubble going for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and ready to melt into the soup’s creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine Sausage, Spinach, and Cream
Return the browned sausage to the pot, stirring it all together to reunite those rich flavors. Toss in the chopped spinach, letting it wilt slightly in the hot broth. Finally, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently as the soup simmers for another 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the spinach to soften and the soup to develop that signature creamy consistency that makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving Prep
Give your soup a taste and feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate. Ladle the hot, creamy Italian sausage and potato soup into bowls, then generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. These finishing touches turn every spoonful into a celebration of comfort and flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to add a nutty, salty kick that complements the creamy base beautifully. For a little extra flair and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to add brightness and a subtle zing.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a warm slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last bit. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this soup in rustic bread bowls for an impressive, cozy presentation that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. Alternatively, garnish with crispy sausage slices or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for extra indulgence. Adding a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche can elevate this dish for a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, perfect for stocking your freezer with a ready-made comfort meal. Just cool it completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the cream may change texture slightly after freezing, but a good stir during reheating brings it back to life.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching and to help the soup regain its creamy texture. If it feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and will still deliver great flavor, although the soup might be a bit lighter in richness.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or extra mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely. Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers work well and add extra nutrients and flavor. Just add them when you sauté the onions to soften them properly.
What type of potatoes works best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchiness, which helps thicken the soup nicely. Yukon Golds can also work but may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
How spicy is this soup?
This soup has a mild to moderate spice level depending on your sausage choice and the amount of black pepper used. Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is a total winner whenever you want something hearty, soulful, and downright delicious. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to impress company. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with a bowl full of comfort that feels like it was made just for you.
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy Italian soup featuring savory sausage, tender potatoes, fresh spinach, and a blend of Italian seasonings, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups chopped spinach
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cream and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain excess fat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Combine and Cook Spinach: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir in chopped spinach and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted and the soup becomes creamy and well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- To make the soup thicker, mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the sausage back to the pot.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
