If you are craving something warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender potatoes simmered to perfection alongside savory sausage, all brought together in a rich, creamy broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. This dish is not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple to make, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort that will have you coming back for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this chowder! Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture, turning humble staples into a comforting masterpiece.
- 4 medium potatoes, diced: The heart of the chowder, delivering creaminess and body with every spoonful.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth without overpowering.
- 1 pound sausage, sliced: Provides a savory punch and wonderful texture contrast.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious richness that makes this chowder indulgent and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Brings an herbaceous touch that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and building the initial flavor foundation.
How to Make Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently until they soften and release their fragrant sweetness. This step is essential as it forms the flavor base that will carry through the entire chowder.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Next, toss in the sliced sausage. Cook it until it’s nicely browned on all sides. This browning process adds a caramelized richness to the chowder and infuses it with the sausage’s savory goodness. Don’t rush this step – those golden edges are packed with flavor.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Thyme
Once your sausage is perfectly browned, stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. The broth will begin to soak up the sausage flavor while the thyme lends a subtle herb note. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook gently until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. This slow simmer is key to developing that irresistible chowder texture.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Season
After the potatoes have softened, slowly add in the heavy cream along with salt and pepper to taste. The cream transforms the soup from a simple broth into a velvety chowder that’s rich and luxurious. Allow it to simmer for another five minutes so all the comforting flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe is now ready to warm you up from the inside out. Ladle it into bowls and get ready for a spoonful of bliss that’s equal parts creamy, savory, and satisfying.
How to Serve Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few well-chosen garnishes can elevate your chowder to new heights. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives introduces a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich creaminess. For an extra touch, crispy bacon bits or grated sharp cheddar cheese add depth and texture that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This chowder is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or warm dinner rolls is pure magic. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious broth. A simple green side salad with a light vinaigrette can bring balance and a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy chowder.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls that make each serving feel extra special. You can also offer toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or sautéed mushrooms on the side so everyone can customize their bowl. Using colorful bowls or serving dishes will make the vibrant chowder even more inviting at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this delicious Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe, storing them properly will help keep all the flavors intact. Transfer the chowder to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. As the chowder sits, its flavors deepen, making the next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
This chowder freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the creamy texture from separating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chowder gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the chowder thickens too much after refrigerating or freezing, stir in a splash of broth or cream to restore its perfect creamy consistency. In under 10 minutes, you’ll have a bowl of comfort ready to go.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various sausages like spicy Italian, smoked, or even chicken sausage. Each variety will bring its own unique flavor to your chowder, so pick your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe?
Yes! You can omit the sausage and substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help mimic that savory depth, and including hearty vegetables like mushrooms or smoked tofu can add texture and flavor.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. They provide richness without dairy, keeping the chowder creamy and delicious.
How thick should the chowder be?
Ideally, the chowder should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still have enough broth to feel like a hearty soup. If it seems too thin, simmer it a bit longer uncovered. If it’s too thick, stir in a little broth or cream until you reach your preferred consistency.
What can I add to make the chowder more flavorful?
Consider adding smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne for heat, or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. Sautéing the sausage with diced bell peppers or celery can also give your chowder an extra layer of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a bowl of this Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home, no matter the season or occasion. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cozy, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Print
Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is a hearty and flavorful soup perfect for chilly days. Made with tender potatoes, savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and creamy broth, this chowder delivers a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The rich blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and thyme enhances the warmth and depth of the soup, making it a classic comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound sausage, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers, preparing it for sautéing.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, releasing their flavors, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until it is nicely browned on all sides, which enhances its savory flavor, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add potatoes, broth, and thyme: Stir in the diced potatoes, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer potatoes: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Stir in cream and season: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and season the chowder with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir everything together to blend the flavors and create a creamy texture.
- Final cooking: Continue cooking the chowder for an additional 5 minutes on low heat to heat through and thicken slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use a mild or spicy sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the pot sides to release starch.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
- This chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
