If you’re craving a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With hearty chunks of tender potatoes, savory Italian sausage, and a velvety cream base, this soup balances rich flavors and textures in the most delightful way. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Each spoonful bursts with Italian-inspired goodness, making it an instant favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and perfect texture in this soup. From the spicy Italian sausage that provides a robust backbone to the cream that brings lusciousness, every component counts.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed: The star protein adds savory, spiced depth and a satisfying meaty texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for browning the sausage and softening the onions, bringing out their sweetness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and aroma that form the soup’s flavorful base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punchy, aromatic undertone that lifts the entire dish.
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced: These tender potatoes soak up the broth, giving the soup a hearty, creamy bite.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that brings everything together in a comforting way.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Adds a rich, silky smooth texture and balances the savory notes perfectly.
- 2 cups chopped spinach: A fresh, vibrant green that adds nutrients and a lovely pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the classic Italian flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough warmth to keep each bite interesting.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): A salty, nutty finishing touch that elevates every spoonful.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning the sausage enhances its flavor through caramelization. Once browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside. This little pause allows you to build layers of taste as you go!
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same pot (and those tasty browned bits left behind), toss in the diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and turn translucent—this soft sweetness is a must. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, letting the rich aroma fill your kitchen. This simple step adds aromatic depth that makes the soup irresistible.
Step 3: Simmer Potatoes and Broth
Next, add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to simmer uncovered. Let it bubble away for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. The broth will carry all those wonderful Italian flavors, while the potatoes begin to release their starch, adding natural creaminess to the soup.
Step 4: Combine Sausage, Spinach, and Cream
Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach—it adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition. Pour in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This final step transforms the broth into that luscious, creamy texture that defines the Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe. Plus, the spinach wilts just perfectly without losing its vibrant green hue.
Step 5: Taste and Garnish
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Then ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. That final sprinkle elevates the soup with a bit of salty, nutty flavor that melts deliciously atop each serving.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan is classic, but feel free to add crispy croutons, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for extra flair. A few twists of fresh cracked black pepper on top will add a subtle heat that complements the creamy broth beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or soft garlic rolls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also make great accompaniments for a full, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls which add charm and delight. You could also portion the soup into cute mugs for an inviting lunch or dinner presentation. Adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavors and creaminess, making it easy to enjoy later without sacrificing taste.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a future meal, you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Just remember to leave a bit of space for expansion, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from separating and to maintain its silky texture. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much after chilling.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor will be a bit milder. You might want to increase the Italian seasoning slightly to keep those classic herbaceous notes prominent.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will shift slightly, but it will still be deliciously creamy.
What type of potatoes works best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they break down just enough during cooking to add creaminess without turning to mush. Yukon Gold can also work and may add a slightly buttery flavor.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To turn up the heat, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or mix in a dash of hot sauce before serving. Spicy Italian sausage varieties also help bring a bit more kick.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and add the cream and spinach during the last 30 minutes to preserve their texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is a heartwarming dish perfect for any day you want something satisfying and full of flavor without fuss. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it. Once you try this soup, I’m sure it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too. So grab your favorite pot, get cooking, and let the delicious aromas fill your home!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy Italian soup combines hearty Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich, savory broth enhanced with Italian seasoning and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal that warms you up, it offers a delicious balance of protein, veggies, and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finish and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute more to release its flavor.
- Simmer potatoes: Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Combine ingredients and finish soup: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until spinach is wilted and soup is creamy.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale for a different flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cream.
