Creamy potato and sausage soup is the ultimate comfort food, rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. This warm and filling soup combines tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a silky, cheesy broth that wraps every ingredient in cozy flavor. Perfect for cold days, family dinners, or make-ahead meals, this soup is simple to prepare yet tastes like it simmered all day.
Ingredients for Potato and Sausage Soup
For the soup base
- 500 g smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional additions
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Preparing the Sausage
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Browning the sausage releases rich, smoky flavor that forms the foundation of the soup.
Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.
Building the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
This step builds depth and aroma, ensuring the soup develops a rich, savory profile from the very beginning.
Cooking the Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The potatoes should be soft enough to slightly break down, helping thicken the soup naturally.
Creating the Creamy Texture
Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, mixing gently to combine.
Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. The soup will become thick, creamy, and velvety.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finishing the Soup
Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir gently to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes so the flavors can blend together.
The sausage adds heartiness, while the potatoes provide comforting texture in every spoonful.
Texture and Flavor
This soup is thick, creamy, and deeply flavorful. The potatoes are soft and tender, the sausage is smoky and savory, and the cheese creates a smooth, rich broth. Every bite is warm, comforting, and satisfying without being overly heavy.
The balance of creaminess and savory ingredients makes this soup a true classic.
Serving Suggestions
Serve creamy potato and sausage soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm rolls.
This soup also works well as a complete meal on its own, thanks to its hearty ingredients and rich texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.
If the soup thickens too much when reheated, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Variations to Try
- Use spicy sausage for extra heat
- Add diced carrots or celery for texture
- Stir in cooked bacon for smoky depth
- Replace cheddar with Gouda or Monterey Jack
- Add corn for a subtle sweetness
These variations allow you to customize the soup while keeping its comforting character intact.
Tips for Best Results
- Use starchy potatoes for natural thickness
- Add cheese slowly to prevent clumping
- Simmer gently after adding dairy
- Season gradually and taste often
- Serve fresh for best texture
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe focuses on balance and simplicity. The potatoes thicken the soup naturally, the sausage adds bold flavor, and the cream and cheese create a smooth, luxurious finish. Each ingredient plays a clear role, resulting in a soup that is reliable, satisfying, and universally loved.
Creamy potato and sausage soup is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth to the table with minimal effort. Easy to prepare, deeply nourishing, and perfect for any season, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.