I’m so excited to share this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe with you because it’s one of those ultimate comfort meals that you’ll want on repeat all fall and winter long. Rich, hearty, and just a little spicy, this soup hits every cozy note without being heavy or complicated. Whether you’re coming in from the cold or just need a quick weeknight supper, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

What makes this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe stand out for me is how the spicy Italian sausage perfectly complements the tender potatoes, while the creamy broth and fresh greens add layers of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s forgiving enough to customize to your taste. I love making a big pot to share with family and having leftovers that taste even better the next day—trust me, you’ll want to give this one a try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sausage Potato Soup Recipe balances savory sausage and earthy potatoes with fresh aromatics and just a touch of spice. Each ingredient brings its own magic, so don’t rush on the quality—especially with the sausage and broth.

Spicy Italian crumbled sausage: This is the star of the show—look for good quality with a nice spice level. You can adjust to mild if you want less heat.
Chopped onion: Adds a sweet, mellow base flavor when sautéed, so don’t skip.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic gives that punchy aroma and depth everyone loves in soup.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds classic warmth.
Paprika (regular or smoked): Adds a subtle smoky richness that elevates the broth.
Tomato paste: This little ingredient intensifies the savory essence and adds body to the soup.
Red pepper flakes: Just a dash provides a gentle heat kick—feel free to tweak this.
Diced carrots: Bring a bit of natural sweetness and color contrast to the dish.
Chicken broth or stock: Using a good-quality broth makes a huge difference in flavor.
Red or yellow potatoes (not russet): These hold their shape better and add that creamy texture without falling apart.
Spinach or kale: I prefer hearty kale for texture, but spinach softens nicely—both add nutrients and freshness.
Heavy cream: This adds a luscious, silky finish, but you can adjust the quantity for your preferred richness.
Fresh thyme or chopped parsley: Mostly for a bright, fresh garnish—don’t skip the green touch!

Variations

I like to keep things fun by personalizing this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe depending on the mood or what’s available in my fridge. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you can easily switch up sausage types or veggies to suit your taste.

Variation: I’ve swapped spicy sausage for a milder sweet Italian sausage on days I want less heat, and it still tastes fantastic.
Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth—add extra mushrooms for umami depth.
Seasonal twist: In the fall, I sometimes add diced butternut squash or turnip for extra earthiness.
Low cream version: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option with a subtle twist.
Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan near the end for a creamy, indulgent touch.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Onions

Start by heating a large soup pot over medium heat and adding the crumbled spicy Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until nicely browned and cooked through—this usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Don’t drain too much fat; a little adds great flavor and richness. Then toss in your chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This layering of flavors makes such a difference in the final soup, so don’t rush.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Then mix in the tomato paste—this ingredient might surprise you, but it gives the broth a wonderful depth and subtle sweetness. Cooking these together before adding broth helps develop those intense flavors you’ll love.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Throw in the diced carrots and potatoes, stirring to coat them evenly with all that savory goodness in the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to let the soup simmer. This simmering stage usually takes about 20-25 minutes or until potatoes and carrots are tender but not falling apart. Keep an eye on it and gently stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finish with Greens and Cream

When your veggies are perfectly tender, stir in the spinach or kale until wilted and bright green. Then pour in the heavy cream, starting with half a cup and adding more if you prefer a richer texture. Heat through without boiling to keep that silky smooth finish. Finally, sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley just before serving for that fresh pop of color and herbaceous aroma.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup Recipe

Sausage Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I like to top this sausage potato soup with a little extra fresh parsley or thyme and sometimes a sprinkle of sharp grated Parmesan. A few chopped scallions or a dollop of sour cream add a nice tangy contrast, too. If you want a bit of crunch, toasted croutons or crispy bacon bits are a real treat.

Side Dishes

My go-to side is a crusty sourdough loaf or warm garlic bread to soak up every delicious drop. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad also complement the soup nicely without overwhelming its comforting flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve this soup in mini bread bowls or individual ceramic mugs for that cozy, rustic vibe. You can also drizzle a little chili oil or swirl in pesto just before serving to impress guests with added layers of flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3-4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. Just be sure to stir well before reheating as some ingredients may settle.

Freezing

This Sausage Potato Soup Recipe freezes beautifully—perfect for meal prep days. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty Ziplock bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop to keep the potatoes from breaking down too much.

Reheating

Reheating gently is key here. I prefer warming it in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick after sitting, just add a splash of broth or water to bring back that perfect soup consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup Recipe without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can skip the heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half, milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The soup will still be tasty, though it won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
What type of potatoes work best in Sausage Potato Soup Recipe?

Red or yellow potatoes are best because they hold their shape well and become tender without falling apart. Avoid russets—they tend to get mushy when cooked in soup for a long time.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage is a leaner option and works fine in this recipe. Just watch the seasoning level since turkey sausage can be milder—you might want to add a pinch more red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
How spicy is this Sausage Potato Soup Recipe?

The sausage brings a pleasant heat, but it’s adjustable. If you prefer milder soup, use mild Italian sausage and reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients (except cream and greens) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the greens and cream during the last 15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Potato Soup Recipe is one of those kitchen wins that always feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s approachable, flavorful, and flexible enough to make your own. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—once you’ve tried it, it might just become your go-to soup for cozy nights in. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s make something delicious together!