When the chill starts to settle in, I find myself craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This creamy potato and sausage chowder soup fits that feeling perfectly. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down and savor each spoonful while the world outside feels frosty and distant.
One evening last winter, as the wind rattled the windows and the sky dimmed early, I settled in with a steaming bowl of this chowder. The aroma of smoked sausage mingled with the richness of cream and the earthiness of potatoes, filling the kitchen with a comforting scent. Each bite was a mix of tender potatoes, silky broth, and the satisfying bite of sausage, all punctuated by just the right hint of thyme and paprika. It was more than dinner; it was a moment of warmth and contentment that made the cold outside fade away.
- Hearty and filling enough to serve as a complete meal.
- Comforting creamy texture with a rich blend of flavors.
- Perfect balance of smoky sausage and tender vegetables.
- Ideal for preparing ahead and enjoying leftovers.
- A versatile crowd-pleaser that feels like homemade love.
Even if you’re new to chowders or creamy soups, this recipe is approachable and forgiving, so don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned cook. The result is always satisfying and full of depth, thanks to simple, quality ingredients coming together.
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Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6
Description
A hearty and comforting creamy potato and sausage chowder soup packed with tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a rich creamy broth. Perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Ingredients
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 stalks celery, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
In the same large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Stir in the dried thyme and smoked paprika.
Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in the browned sausage, whole milk, and heavy cream. Heat the soup gently for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not boil after adding milk and cream to prevent curdling.
Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this chowder vegetarian? While the sausage adds a smoky richness, you can swap it for smoked tofu or mushrooms to keep that savory depth without the meat.
Is it okay to freeze the leftovers? This chowder contains cream, which might separate when frozen and reheated, so it’s best enjoyed within a few days refrigerated.
How can I make it thicker or thinner? For a thicker chowder, let it simmer longer uncovered; to thin it out, add a splash more broth or milk when reheating.
Can I use different potatoes? Russet potatoes work best for their texture, but Yukon Golds can also provide a creamy consistency.
What sides go well with this chowder? Crusty bread or a simple green salad complements the richness and rounds out the meal.
Ready to cozy up with a bowl? Save this recipe for your next chilly day and enjoy the comforting flavors that only a creamy potato and sausage chowder soup can offer.