Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl packed with tender potatoes and flavorful Italian sausage pieces all swimming in a rich, creamy broth. The combination of mild spices from the sausage and the smooth texture of the soup makes it a perfect meal for chilly days or any time you want something filling and warm.
I love making this soup when I want an easy meal that feels homemade and special. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The sausage adds a little spice and depth, while the potatoes soak up all the lovely flavors, making every spoonful cozy and delicious.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a slice of crusty bread on the side to soak up the creamy broth. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone around the table and makes you feel right at home. Plus, it’s even better the next day, so I often make a big batch to have leftovers that I look forward to eating.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This gives the soup its bold flavor. Feel free to pick mild or spicy based on what you like. If you want a lighter version, turkey or chicken sausage work well too.
Potatoes: Yukon Golds are great for a creamy, buttery texture, while Russets make the soup thicker as they break down more. Red potatoes can be used if you prefer firmer chunks.
Heavy Cream: Adds that creamy touch that makes the soup comforting. For lighter options, try half-and-half or use a plant-based cream like coconut milk, but add it at the end without boiling to keep it smooth.
Diced Tomatoes: Provides some acidity to balance the richness. If you don’t have canned, fresh chopped tomatoes can be a nice fresh substitute.
Chicken Broth: Forms the soup’s base. Use low-sodium broth so you can better control saltiness, or vegetable broth if you want to make it without meat.
How Do I Cook the Sausage and Potatoes So They’re Perfect Every Time?
Cooking the sausage until browned is key—it builds deep flavor. Don’t rush this step; break the sausage apart so it cooks evenly. Then, sauté the onions in the flavorful fat left behind.
Add potatoes after the onions and sausage are ready. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer to cook the potatoes without breaking them. Check tenderness with a fork.
Once potatoes are soft, stir in the cream carefully and warm for a few minutes without boiling. Boiling cream can cause it to curdle, so gentle heat is best.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot – great for browning sausage and simmering the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for breaking up sausage and stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – to easily chop potatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Cutting board – provides a safe and clean surface for prepping ingredients.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for spicy chorizo to add a smoky, bold flavor.
- Add kale or spinach near the end for a boost of color and nutrition.
- Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan for extra cheesy richness.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter and colorful twist.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. Most of that time is simply letting the potatoes soften and the flavors meld together gently on the stove. It’s a quick and comforting meal you can have ready in under 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot, leaving the flavorful fat behind.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage drippings. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes, Sausage, and Seasonings:
Mix in the diced potatoes, browned sausage, drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything together well.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Test the potatoes by poking them with a fork.
5. Finish with Cream and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes on low heat. Be sure not to boil the soup after adding the cream to avoid curdling. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or your favorite side for a cozy, satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps the sausage cook evenly and browns nicely without steaming.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding cream, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the cream at the end to keep it smooth and fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water while reheating.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the rich, creamy flavors nicely.
