Imagine a soup so rich, creamy, and packed with flavor that it instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening. This Cheesy Sausage Potato Soup isn't just another recipe - it's a culinary hug that combines the hearty goodness of Italian sausage, the creamy comfort of melted cheddar, and tender potatoes in one irresistible bowl. Whether you're looking to impress your family or warm up your soul, this recipe is about to become your new comfort food obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the Italian sausage from its casing and brown it in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, breaking the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is fully cooked and develops a nice golden color, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. This will help add extra flavor to the soup base.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté in the sausage drippings until they become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are mostly covered by liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some of the potatoes, creating a thicker soup consistency.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream, heating through but being careful not to boil after adding the cream.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and cheese will already add some saltiness, so season carefully.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve immediately with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh Italian sausage and sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
- Don't rush the sausage browning - developing those golden bits creates deeper taste.
- For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes; for a lighter consistency, mash less.
- Add cream at the end and avoid boiling to prevent separation.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Fresh chives make a big difference - they add a bright, fresh note to the rich soup.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious, cheesy goodness.
- This soup freezes well - make a double batch and save some for later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 377kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 110mg
