There’s a certain comfort that comes with a steaming bowl of soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. As the leaves begin to fall and a gentle breeze rolls in, I often find myself drawn to hearty recipes that warm both the belly and the soul. Enter my Classic Pork Sausage Potato Soup, a delightful fusion of savory flavors that transports me back to cozy family dinners. The moment you take your first spoonful, you’ll be greeted by the rich, creamy texture, enhanced perfectly by the satisfying taste of well-browned pork sausage.
After a long day, there’s nothing quite like this comforting dish that beckons you home. Pair it with crusty bread, and you’ve got the ideal meal to gather friends and family around the table. So, if you’re ready to revitalize your weeknight dinners and say goodbye to fast food, let’s dive into this simple, delicious recipe that promises to become a new favorite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making an extra batch to share!
Why is this Pork Sausage Potato Soup irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: This soup offers a cozy embrace in every spoonful, perfect for chilly nights.
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender potatoes and flavorful pork sausage, it’s a meal in itself!
Simple Preparation: Even novice chefs can whip this up easily, boosting your culinary confidence.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, it’s perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or your favorite toppings for added flair.
Say goodbye to fast food fatigue and hello to warming homemade goodness!
Pork Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Russet Potatoes – Helps thicken the soup and provides a hearty texture; substitute with Yukon Gold for creaminess.
- Ground Pork Sausage – The key flavor enhancer; make sure it’s well-browned to unlock deep, savory notes.
- Yellow Onion – Brings a natural sweetness when sautéed, creating a rich flavor foundation for the soup.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh minced garlic elevates the overall taste.
- Salted Butter – Provides richness when sautéing the aromatics; can use unsalted butter if preferred.
For the Broth
- Chicken Broth – Forms the soup’s base; opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice that keeps the flavors balanced.
- Half and Half – Gives the soup its creamy consistency; you can substitute with milk for a lighter version.
For the Finishing Touch
- Sour Cream – Adds a tangy kick; mix in off the heat to prevent curdling for a luscious finish.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese & Chives – Optional toppings; they enhance both flavor and presentation, making every bowl inviting.
Every ingredient in this Pork Sausage Potato Soup is carefully chosen to create a comforting taste experience that warms your heart and home.
How to Make Pork Sausage Potato Soup
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Prep Potatoes: Begin by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and create a hearty base for your soup.
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Cook Sausage: In a large pot, cook the ground pork sausage over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes until browned and crispy. This step is essential for developing the soup’s rich flavor. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for roughly 7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Then, stir in the salted butter and minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring well. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and deliciously creamy.
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Mash and Mix: Gently mash some of the potatoes against the pot’s side for added creaminess. Stir in the sour cream and the cooked sausage, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, topping each with shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and a dollop of additional sour cream if desired.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pork Sausage Potato Soup
- Choose Potatoes Wisely: Select russet potatoes for a hearty texture; Yukon Gold offers creaminess while red potatoes maintain firmer chunks.
- Brown the Sausage: Ensure the ground pork sausage is well-browned to deepen the flavor; undercooking can result in a bland soup.
- Avoid Curdling: Always remove the soup from heat before stirring in sour cream to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
- Control Creaminess: Mash only half of the potatoes to get a creamy consistency without needing extra thickeners; this keeps the soup hearty.
- Seasoning Matters: Taste and season with salt and pepper at the end; this helps balance flavors, making your Pork Sausage Potato Soup deliciously satisfying.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to stir in seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and texture, enhancing the soup without compromising its heartiness.
What to Serve with Classic Pork Sausage Potato Soup?
Creating a warm and cozy dinner doesn’t stop at the soup; it’s all about building a comforting meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup. Every scoop becomes a delicious delight!
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Homemade Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread provides a lovely contrast and a heartwarming flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the soup.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brings a crisp, refreshing element, balancing the richness of your hearty soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky treats are irresistible and ideal for sopping up every last drop of soup, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
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Cheesy Biscuits: With their fluffy texture and gooey cheese, these biscuits add a delightful twist, offering extra comfort to your cozy meal.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly beverage adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory soup, enhancing the dining experience.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Classic Pork Sausage Potato Soup will create a delectable family feast that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
This Classic Pork Sausage Potato Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during your busy week! You can chop the potatoes, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can cook the sausage and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions and garlic, then combine everything in the pot and simmer until the potatoes are tender. This keeps the soup just as delicious and hearty, delivering comforting warmth with minimal effort when you need it most!
Pork Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your soup and tailor it to your taste preferences!
- Turkey Sausage: Swap pork sausage for ground turkey for a lighter yet still flavorful meal. This variation is perfect for those watching their fat intake.
- Mixed Veggies: Add frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and color. This twist not only boosts the health factor but also adds a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring heat to your soup. Adjust based on your spice tolerance for a warming sensation.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering step to deepen the flavor profile. These herbs will infuse comforting aromas that enhance your experience.
- Creamy & Cheesy: Use cream cheese in place of half and half for an ultra-creamy texture. This twist makes your soup extra decadent, perfect for special occasions.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute pork sausage with plant-based sausage and coconut milk for a delicious vegan version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with toppings like feta or blue cheese for a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the soup.
- Potato Varieties: Try using different types of potatoes, like sweet potatoes for sweetness or red potatoes for a firmer texture, adding a unique twist to the classic dish.
Whichever variation you choose, your customized Pork Sausage Potato Soup is destined to be a favorite!
Storage Tips for Pork Sausage Potato Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld further while keeping it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup on medium heat until steaming, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture of your Pork Sausage Potato Soup.
Cooling: Before refrigerating or freezing, let the soup cool to room temperature to preserve its quality and prevent condensation.
Pork Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best results?
I recommend using russet potatoes for their ability to thicken the broth as they cook. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute Yukon Gold potatoes. Red potatoes are another great option if you enjoy firmer chunks in your soup.
How should I store leftover Pork Sausage Potato Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain both its creamy texture and rich flavor. Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
Can I freeze Pork Sausage Potato Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To do this, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into the container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water each time you reheat it until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a quarter cup and mix thoroughly before adding more. This way, you can adjust incrementally!
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
Certainly! If you want to keep your Pork Sausage Potato Soup lighter, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also substitute half-and-half with a lower-fat milk or a dairy alternative. Just remember to mix in the sour cream off the heat to maintain a smooth texture.
Can I give the Pork Sausage Potato Soup to my pet?
While the ingredients in this soup are generally safe for dogs, be cautious with salt and onions, as they can be harmful. It’s best to avoid giving them any seasoned foods. If you want to share, try cooking plain potatoes and sausage separately without any seasoning to treat your furry friend!
Pork Sausage Potato Soup That Warms Your Soul and Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces.
- In a large pot, cook the ground pork sausage over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, until nicely browned.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, sautéing it for about 7 minutes until soft. Stir in the salted butter, allowing it to melt before adding in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, then stir in the diced potatoes.
- Allow your soup to cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat until the potatoes are fork tender.
- Lightly mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot to create a creamy texture, then stir in the sour cream and cooked sausage.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, chives, and a dollop of additional sour cream, if desired.