Cozy Italian sausage and potato soup is the sort of dish that warms your soul and fills your belly. Whenever the weather turns cool, the comforting aroma of savory sausage, creamy potatoes, and bright greens fills the kitchen, instantly appealing to the senses. This recipe combines easy preparation with hearty flavors, making it not only delicious but also an approachable meal that anyone can whip up after a long day. With a handful of straightforward ingredients, you can enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
This Italian sausage and potato soup offers a velvety texture that melds perfectly with the hearty potatoes and vibrant greens. It’s a perfect option for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. With each spoonful, you can savor the balance of flavors and the satisfying heartiness, ensuring it’s a dish that appeals to everyone around the table.
Why you’ll love this
- Takes just about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
- Hearty and satisfying for the whole family.
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients, so no special shopping is required.
- Freezes well for quick meals later.
- Packed with nutrients from the kale or spinach and potatoes.
"This soup is a hug in a bowl—comforting and delicious!"
Step-by-step overview
The process of making this cozy soup is simple and straightforward. Start by cooking the Italian sausage with onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add the diced potatoes and chicken broth, allowing them to simmer until tender. Finally, stir in the creamy element and greens, let it all meld together, and serve warm.
What you’ll need
- 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)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Italian sausage can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold is preferred for its creaminess, but Russets work as well.
- Greens: Feel free to use whatever leafy greens you have on hand, like Swiss chard or collard greens.
- Cream: Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter texture.
Cooking method
This Italian sausage and potato soup comes together in a few simple steps, delivering comfort in no time.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat (if needed) and add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pro Tip: Pat the sausage dry before adding to the pot; it helps achieve a better sear.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. You can pierce them with a fork to check doneness; they should break apart easily.
- Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), and add the chopped kale or spinach. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to wilt the greens and combine the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use a large pot to allow for easy stirring and to accommodate the ingredients.
- Be sure not to overcook the greens; they should be vibrant and not wilted completely.
- For richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth if you have it available.
- Cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned to enhance the soup’s flavor significantly.
Serving suggestions
This cozy Italian sausage and potato soup is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. You can serve it with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch. A drizzle of olive oil or a dash of balsamic vinegar adds an elegant finish.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality, use within 3 to 4 days. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, reheat thoroughly on the stove over medium heat until steaming hot.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If the soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s bland, adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, or add a splash of hot sauce for flavor depth. For overcooked potatoes that are falling apart, consider blending the soup slightly for a smoother texture or stirring in additional vegetables.
Creative twists
Consider adding other ingredients for variety. You can throw in diced carrots or celery for an added crunch. For a touch of smokiness, add a few strips of cooked bacon or smoked sausage. If you’re craving something spicy, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
Common questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen kale or spinach can be substituted easily. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t overcook.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can either mash some of the potatoes in the pot before serving or add a cornstarch slurry (about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and let it simmer for a few minutes.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?
To reheat frozen soup, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through.
Can I use other kinds of greens?
Certainly! You can easily substitute or mix in other greens such as Swiss chard, arugula, or even turnip greens for a unique flavor profile.
Cozy Italian sausage and potato soup is more than just a dish; it’s an experience full of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a hearty weeknight meal or enjoying it with loved ones, this soup is bound to bring everyone to the table for a cozy gathering, and it’s easy to adapt to your tastes. Dive into a bowl today, and let the flavors wrap around you like a warm blanket!
Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat (if needed) and add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Once browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. You can pierce them with a fork to check doneness; they should break apart easily.
- Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), and add the chopped kale or spinach.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to wilt the greens and combine the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.