This Potato and Sausage Chowder is a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for cold weather and cozy nights. Instead of traditional seafood chowder, this hearty version features savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a velvety broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s both comforting and satisfying—perfect for the whole family!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) sausage (Italian or smoked)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 carrot, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Cook the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. If using lean sausage, add olive oil as needed. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened.
Add the Potatoes & Broth: Stir in potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and milk, then return the cooked sausage to the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 780mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is a rich, creamy, and satisfying soup that’s perfect for cold-weather comfort food. Unlike traditional seafood chowders, this version features savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a velvety broth that’s full of flavor. It’s an easy one-pot meal that requires simple ingredients but delivers incredible depth and heartiness.

With a creamy, thick texture and the savory richness of sausage, this chowder is the perfect dish for cozy nights at home, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests on a chilly evening. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread, biscuits, or a fresh salad, this chowder is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes This Potato and Sausage Chowder Special?

Savory and Hearty Flavor: The browned sausage and aromatic vegetables create a deep, comforting taste that’s perfect for chilly nights.
Thick and Creamy Broth: A combination of heavy cream and milk makes the soup luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
One-Pot Simplicity: Everything is cooked in a single pot, making cleanup quick and easy.
Perfectly Balanced: Tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and celery add the right amount of texture and flavor balance.
Great for Meal Prep: This chowder stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Tips for Making the Best Potato and Sausage Chowder

To get the perfect creamy texture and deep flavor, follow these simple tips:

Choose the Right Sausage:
- Use Italian sausage for a mild, herby flavor.
- Try smoked sausage for a deep, smoky taste.
- Spicy sausage adds a bit of heat, which complements the creamy broth well.
Brown the Sausage for More Flavor: Sautéing the sausage until deeply browned creates a rich, savory base for the soup.
Use Starchy Potatoes for a Thick Broth:
- Russet potatoes break down slightly, making the broth thicker.
- Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better but still contribute to the creaminess.
Simmer Gently After Adding Dairy: Avoid boiling the soup once you add the heavy cream and milk, as high heat can cause them to separate.
Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Potato and Sausage Chowder

A warm, comforting bowl of chowder is satisfying on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

Bread Pairings

Crusty French Bread: Great for soaking up the creamy broth.
Garlic Bread: Adds a delicious buttery, garlicky crunch.
Cheddar Biscuits: A soft, cheesy biscuit pairs beautifully with the creamy chowder.

Salads for a Lighter Balance

Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
Apple Walnut Salad: A sweet and tangy salad with apples, walnuts, and cranberries contrasts nicely with the savory chowder.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the richness of the soup.

Other Cozy Side Dishes

Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans add extra nutrients.
Cornbread: A slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs wonderfully with the chowder.
Stuffed Mushrooms: A flavorful appetizer that complements the heartiness of the soup.

Variations & Customizations

Want to put your own unique twist on this chowder? Try these variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicier version.
Cheesy Chowder: Stir in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy texture.
Vegetable-Packed Version: Add corn, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value.
Lighter Alternative: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Bacon Lover’s Chowder: Stir in crispy cooked bacon for a smoky, indulgent flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free sausage and ensure the broth is gluten-free for a completely GF chowder.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For best results, freeze without the cream and milk, then add them when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is incredibly versatile and works for a variety of occasions:

Weeknight Dinner: Quick, one-pot recipe that’s easy to make after a long day.
Cold Weather Comfort: Perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or when you need a comforting meal.
Meal Prep & Leftovers: Stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal planning.
Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing soup that’s easy to make in large batches.
Holiday Side Dish: Serve as a starter for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a winter holiday meal.

Conclusion

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is the perfect combination of creamy, hearty, and flavorful. With savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, comforting broth, it’s everything you need in a bowl of soup. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this chowder is sure to be a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

With simple ingredients, easy one-pot preparation, and endless customization options, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Pair it with warm bread, a fresh salad, or enjoy it on its own, and you have a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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