Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup – Easy & Hearty!

Exploring the culinary world often leads me to comforting recipes that warm both the heart and the home. One of those recipes is a delicious Italian sausage and potato soup, which always brings back fond memories of family gatherings. The aroma of sautéed sausage and garlic fills the air, making everyone linger in the kitchen.

This soup blends the robust flavors of Italian sausage with hearty potatoes and vibrant greens. Every spoonful encapsulates the love and effort that goes into home cooking. Each ingredient plays a vital role, creating a soulful dish that truly embodies comfort food.

As the weather cools down, this Italian sausage and potato soup becomes a staple at our dinner table. It invites everyone to come together, sharing not just a meal but also stories and laughter. Let’s dive into this simple, yet extravagant dish that transforms basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

Cozy Comforts of Soup

Fundamentals

Creating a cozy Italian sausage and potato soup starts with understanding the fundamental ingredients. Italian sausage provides a flavorful base, while potatoes deliver creaminess and body. The combination of kale or spinach adds a fresh element, balancing the richness of the cream.

Chicken broth acts as the culinary glue, tying the flavors together. A touch of garlic and onion enhances the overall depth, making each bite a revelation. The optional crushed red pepper flakes cater to those who crave a hint of heat, elevating the soup further.

Preparation/setup

Preparation is key to ensuring this Italian sausage and potato soup turns out perfectly. Start by gathering all ingredients, which include 1 lb of Italian sausage, 4 cups of diced potatoes, and a few aromatics such as diced onion and minced garlic. Rinse and chop the greens so they blend seamlessly into the soup.

Utilizing Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes gives the best texture and flavor. Sauté the sausage with the aromatics to create a savory foundation. This step not only develops flavor but also creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your hearty Italian sausage and potato soup:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, for sautéing)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a soul-satisfying soup.

Directions

1. Cook the Sausage & Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the pot and cook until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.

2. Simmer the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

3. Finish with Cream & Greens: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale or spinach. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional few minutes until the greens wilt and the soup thickens slightly.

4. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy a hearty meal that showcases the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.

Crafting the Perfect Bowl

Technique

Mastering the technique behind this soup sets the stage for success. The key is to sauté the sausage until it’s richly browned, enhancing its flavor. Use low to medium heat to prevent burning the garlic, which would impart an unpleasant bitterness.

Simmer the potatoes in the broth rather than boiling them rapidly. This method allows them to absorb the flavors and prevents overcooking, which could result in mushy pieces. Lastly, remember to taste throughout the cooking process; adjusting salt and pepper elevates the dish.

Tips/tricks

Utilize these tips to elevate your Italian sausage and potato soup:

• If you prefer a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
• For added flavor, consider tossing in a bay leaf or fresh herbs such as thyme during the simmering phase.
• If you enjoy a bit more heat, don’t hesitate to increase the crushed red pepper flakes.

Understanding these techniques and tricks can transform a good soup into a great one.

Perfecting Every Spoonful

Perfecting results

To perfect each bowl of this Italian sausage and potato soup, focus on ingredient quality. Selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Yukon Gold potatoes contribute a buttery richness that beautifully complements the sausage.

Monitor the cooking times carefully. Overcooking the potatoes will detract from the soup’s texture. You want tender potatoes that hold their shape while soaking up the broth.

Troubleshooting/variations

Sometimes, soup perfection requires adjustments. If the soup appears too thin, allow it to simmer longer without a lid to reduce excess broth. For a thicker consistency, consider mashing a portion of the potatoes and mixing them back into the soup.

Variations also keep the dish exciting. Swap in turkey sausage for a lighter flavor or include different greens such as Swiss chard. Customize this recipe to fit your palate, making it truly yours.

Serving Style and Storage

Serving/presentation

When serving this Italian sausage and potato soup, use wide, deep bowls to highlight its hearty nature. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick and elevates the soup visually. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, providing an additional texture contrast.

For a pop of freshness, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or basil. These elements brighten the appearance and flavor, transforming the soup into a showstopper.

Pairings/storage

This soup serves well with various sides, such as a vibrant salad or garlic bread. Both complement the rich flavors without overshadowing them.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This soup retains its quality in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freezing portions works beautifully, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish later.

By focusing on these elements, every bowl of Italian sausage and potato soup can become a highlight of your culinary journey.

Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting Italian sausage and potato soup filled with hearty ingredients and robust flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, for sautéing)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the pot and cook until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale or spinach. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional few minutes until the greens wilt and the soup thickens slightly.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy a hearty meal that showcases the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Consider adding a bay leaf or fresh herbs during simmering for more flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Italian soup, sausage soup, potato soup, comfort food, hearty soup