Cozy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe with Cheddar – Easy Comfort Meal

Picture this: the aroma of sizzling sausage paired with the earthy scent of potatoes simmering away, filling your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. This cozy sausage potato soup with cheddar is the kind of recipe that wraps you in a blanket of comfort and reminds you of the best home-cooked meals. The first time I made this, it was a chilly autumn afternoon, and let me tell you, this soup quickly became a family favorite. As soon as my kids took their first bite, they were hooked! It’s hearty, cheesy, and downright irresistible.

This soup has a way of bringing people together—it’s perfect for those moments when you need something soul-soothing. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cold winter evening, this recipe is your ticket to pure warmth and coziness. It’s so simple to make, yet it feels like you’ve poured hours of love into every spoonful. Honestly, I can’t believe I didn’t discover this comforting classic sooner. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to share it with everyone you know. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to serve it at every family gathering or to impress your friends at casual dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your fridge or pantry.
• Hearty and Comforting: The combination of potatoes, sausage, and cheddar creates the ultimate feel-good meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is loved by kids and adults alike—expect empty bowls every time!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors—savory sausage, creamy potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese. Together, they create a rich and satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s not just another potato soup; it’s your go-to comfort meal with a twist that makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something indulgent, this recipe will make your taste buds sing.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cozy sausage potato soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create bold flavors with no fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground sausage: Choose your favorite variety—mild, spicy, or even turkey sausage works well.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for their creamy texture when cooked.
• Onion: A medium yellow onion, diced (adds a wonderful depth of flavor).
• Carrots: Two medium carrots, peeled and chopped (adds a hint of sweetness).
• Celery: Two stalks of celery, sliced thin (for that extra crunch and flavor).
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better).
• Chicken broth: Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth (for a rich base).
• Heavy cream: One cup (makes it luxuriously creamy).
• Cheddar cheese: One and a half cups shredded sharp cheddar (the star of the show!).
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Optional toppings: Crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t fret! You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, or use milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, double-check that your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cozy sausage potato soup:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.
• Sharp knife: To chop your veggies and sausage with ease.
• Cutting board: Go for a sturdy one that’s easy to clean.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements to nail the recipe every time.

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a deep stockpot works just as well. And if you’re using an electric stove, make sure to stir frequently to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom.

How to Make Cozy Sausage Potato Soup

1. Cook the sausage: Heat your soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with your wooden spoon. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the veggies: In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the diced onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until they’ve softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add potatoes and broth: Stir in the chopped potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Blend for creaminess (optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.
5. Add the cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Season and serve: Add salt and pepper to taste, and give the soup a final stir. Serve warm with your favorite toppings—crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, or even a sprinkle of extra cheddar.

This soup is dangerously easy to make, and trust me, it’s worth every step!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your sausage potato soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Brown the sausage well: Don’t rush this step! A good sear adds depth and flavor to the soup.
• Cut vegetables uniformly: Evenly sized pieces ensure everything cooks at the same rate.
• Keep an eye on the potatoes: Overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes. Test them with a fork after 15 minutes.
• Don’t skip the cheese: Cheddar is the secret to that creamy, gooey finish. Use a good quality cheddar for best results.
• Adjust the seasoning last: Always taste the soup before serving and add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Double the recipe: This soup freezes beautifully, so make an extra batch for quick weeknight meals.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to make this soup your own? Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Seasonal twist: Toss in some fresh corn or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and swap cheddar for your favorite dairy-free cheese.
• Low-carb version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter alternative.

Once, I added crispy fried onions on top, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Feel free to experiment and create your own unique spin!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This sausage potato soup is best enjoyed warm, but there are plenty of ways to make it even better:

• Serving: Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh green salad. A glass of crisp white wine or iced tea makes for a perfect drink pairing.
• Storage: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes like a dream! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.
• Flavor development: Like many soups, this one tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional perks of this delicious soup:

• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving.
• Protein-packed: The sausage and cheddar provide plenty of protein to keep you full and satisfied.
• Rich in vitamins: Carrots and potatoes offer a boost of Vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.
• Calcium boost: The cheddar cheese and cream contribute to your daily calcium needs.
• Flexible for dietary needs: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free preferences.

If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to check the labels on your sausage and broth for potential allergens like gluten or dairy.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about this cozy sausage potato soup with cheddar. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together over a shared love for comforting, homemade goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a big family gathering, this soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

I love how easy it is to customize—whether you’re swapping out ingredients or adding your own twists, it’s a recipe that welcomes creativity. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below with your favorite variations or share your experience making this dish. I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own!

The next time you’re craving something warm and delicious, remember this recipe. It’s not just a soup—it’s a hug in a bowl. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a hint of sweetness and a slightly different texture to the soup. Just adjust the cooking time as sweet potatoes cook faster.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze this soup?

Definitely! Just make sure to cool it completely and store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this soup thicker?

You can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it up. Just be careful not to overdo it!

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