There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a big bowl of soup, especially as the cold weather creeps in. Every time autumn rustles its leaves, I find myself craving a comforting soup that warms my soul. Enter: cozy crockpot potato soup with sausage. This recipe has been tucked into the corners of my personal archives for years, and it never fails to impress. It’s a dish that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the robust flavors of sausage, all simmered to perfection. And let me share a little secret—it practically cooks itself while you go about your day!
Why you’ll love this recipe
Picture this: a chilly evening, and all you want is something that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. That’s precisely what this potato soup delivers. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavors that dance on your taste buds. A delicious balance of savory sausage and the comforting goodness of soft potatoes creates a fantastic symphony of taste. Plus, it’s made in a crockpot! Life doesn’t get much easier than putting everything in one pot and letting it work its magic.
But that’s not all! This recipe is also incredibly flexible. Don’t like sausage? Swap it for some diced ham or a plant-based alternative! Need it to be gluten-free? Grab a gluten-free broth, and voilà! The adaptability of this dish makes it a reliable staple for any night of the week—perfect for busy evenings or when you want to entertain without stress.
Gather these ingredients
First up are the potatoes. You’ll need 2 pounds of these starchy wonders, peeled and diced to provide that cozy texture we all cherish in a soup. They become creamy as they cook, breaking down in all the right ways.
Next, let’s talk about the sausage—1 pound of your choice, Italian or smoked, sliced thin for maximum flavor. The sausage works its way into the dish, adding richness and depth that elevates the soup from simple to spectacular. Don’t hesitate to experiment—chicken sausage can also work wonders here!
Then, there’s one onion, chopped to bring sweetness and savory notes right into the mix. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is simply intoxicating.
We’ll need 3 cups of chicken broth to form the lovely base. This is where most of the flavor comes from, so if you’re feeling adventurous, try using home-made broth or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Next, we’ll incorporate 1 cup of either milk or heavy cream. This is what gives that killer creaminess, making every spoonful feel like a treat. If you’re watching your calories, you could use a plant-based milk without sacrificing too much richness.
Don’t forget the garlic! Two cloves, minced, for that aromatic kick that’ll make people wonder what’s cooking.
And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without salt and pepper to taste. Taste as you go; it’s your soup after all! Finally, for a little garnish, grab some chopped green onions or parsley to brighten up the finished dish.
The cooking process explained
Ready for the fun part? Let’s dive into the cooking process—it’s ridiculously straightforward!
Start by tossing the diced potatoes, sliced sausage, chopped onion, chicken broth, and minced garlic into your trusty crockpot. Just imagine the comforting aromas that fill your space when it all blends together!
Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy, but taste later to adjust as needed because those flavors will intensify over time.
Now here’s where the magic happens: cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just picture it simmering away while you tackle your day!
When it’s nearly done, stir in the milk or cream. This is the moment the soup transforms from wholesome to downright decadent—don’t skip it!
Serve warm and finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for that perfect touch.
Best way to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this beauty, simplicity is key. A big bowl of this cozy soup is best paired with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. If you’re up for it, create a cozy buffet with toppings like shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or even some sour cream for those who want to take it up a notch!
For a fun twist, why not set out a "soup bar"? Offer toppings like crispy fried onions, diced jalapeños for the spice lovers, or extra herbs for those fragrant notes. Your family or friends will appreciate the personal touch, and they’ll love customizing their bowls.
Storage and reheating tips
Now, if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but you never know), this soup stores beautifully! Just let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can chill in the fridge for up to four days, or you can freeze it for future cozy meals.
When the craving strikes, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave. Just be sure to stir in a splash of broth or milk while reheating to keep that creamy texture intact!
Pro chef tips
To make your potato soup even more divine, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a bit of oil before adding them to the crockpot. This little step adds an aromatic depth that kicks it up a notch!
Want a spicier punch? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you season. Oh, and for a smoky flavor, a touch of smoked paprika does wonders!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Let’s mix things up! Try adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or celery for a pop of color and extra nutrition. You could also fold in some kale or spinach near the end for a healthy boost.
For a different flavor profile, think of swapping the sausage for chorizo or even some wild mushrooms if you want a vegetarian flair.
And if you’re in a hurry, using frozen diced hash brown potatoes can save time without sacrificing flavor. Just toss them in the same as fresh potatoes and watch them work their magic.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound sausage (Italian or smoked), sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
How to prepare it
- In a crockpot, combine diced potatoes, sliced sausage, chopped onion, chicken broth, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk or cream before serving.
- Serve warm and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
Your questions answered
- What’s the prep time? About 15-20 minutes, tops!
- Can I use other meats? Absolutely! Chicken, ham, or even some veggie sausage work great.
- How long does it last in the fridge? Up to four days if stored properly.
- Can I freeze it? Yes! Make sure it cools completely before freezing.
- What’s a good side dish to serve? Crusty bread or a light salad works wonderfully.
With a recipe this inviting, I hope you feel inspired to create your own warm bowl of comfort. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about connecting with your kitchen, with your loved ones, and with the joy of cooking. So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, grab those potatoes, and let’s make something delicious together! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and any twists you throw into the mix. Happy cooking!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
Description
This creamy and hearty potato soup with sausage is the ultimate comfort food, simmered to perfection in a crockpot for easy preparation.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Combine ingredients
In a crockpot, combine diced potatoes, sliced sausage, chopped onion, chicken broth, and minced garlic.Season
Season with salt and pepper.Cook
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.Add cream
Stir in milk or cream before serving.Serve
Serve warm and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 15g30%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 30 mg
- Calcium 150 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 1.5 IU
- Vitamin K 15 mcg
- Thiamin 0.3 mg
- Riboflavin 0.3 mg
- Niacin 3 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.5 mg
- Folate 15 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1 mg
- Phosphorus 150 mg
- Magnesium 30 mg
- Zinc 2 mg
- Copper 0.2 mg
- Manganese 0.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
