There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, creamy soup on a cold day. Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is the perfect dish to make when you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. This recipe combines the rich taste of turkey sausage, the creaminess of heavy cream and milk, and the earthiness of fresh kale and potatoes to create a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or making a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is incredibly simple to make and is an excellent way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal prep. Here are a few reasons why this recipe should be a staple in your kitchen:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey sausage, potatoes, and a creamy broth creates a robust flavor that is well-balanced and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With only a few basic steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be whipped up quickly.
- Healthy Twist: Using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage reduces the fat content, and adding kale provides a nutritious boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Family-Friendly: This soup appeals to a wide variety of palates, making it perfect for family meals.
Ingredients with Quantities
To make this Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Turkey sausage, sliced – Turkey sausage is a lighter option compared to traditional pork sausage, adding protein without the extra fat.
- 4 large potatoes, diced – Potatoes provide the starchy base for the soup, making it hearty and filling.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the overall taste with its aromatic, savory notes.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Chicken broth creates a savory base and keeps the soup flavorful.
- 2 cups milk – Milk adds a creamy texture to the broth without making it too thick.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Heavy cream makes the soup rich and luxurious.
- 2 cups kale, chopped – Kale adds a pop of color and nutrition to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and sausage.
Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup:
1. Sauté the Turkey Sausage
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced turkey sausage. Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked through. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the Potatoes
Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir them in with the onions and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to start absorbing the flavors before adding the liquid ingredients.
4. Pour in Chicken Broth
After the potatoes have cooked for a few minutes, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add the Milk and Cream
When the potatoes are soft, stir in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. These dairy ingredients create the creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting. Be sure to season the soup with salt and pepper to taste at this point.
6. Return the Sausage and Add Kale
Add the cooked turkey sausage back into the pot, along with the 2 cups of chopped kale. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The kale should wilt, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
7. Serve
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the turkey sausage with other types of sausage, such as pork sausage, Italian sausage, or even chicken sausage. Keep in mind that the type of sausage you use will affect the flavor and nutritional content of the soup. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for spicy sausage varieties.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. Simply reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat before serving. You may need to add a bit more broth or milk to adjust the consistency, as the soup will thicken as it cools.
3. Can I freeze Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Keep in mind that dairy-based soups may have a slightly altered texture after freezing, but it should still taste delicious.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. Carrots, celery, and spinach would make excellent additions. You can add them in at the same time as the potatoes or kale, depending on how long they take to cook.
5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
If you need a dairy-free version of this soup, you can substitute the milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Keep in mind that coconut milk will give the soup a slightly different flavor, so choose the substitute based on your preference.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients found in a single serving of this Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup:
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
- Protein: High in protein thanks to the turkey sausage
- Fiber: The potatoes and kale provide a good source of fiber
- Vitamins and Minerals: Kale is a superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K, while the potatoes offer potassium and vitamin C
Conclusion
Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy base and a combination of hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s easy to modify based on your preferences or dietary needs.