Dinner

Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Name: Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes; 2 cups kale or spinach; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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This cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup brings together savory sausage, tender potatoes, and bright tomatoes in a warm, comforting bowl. The aroma of browned sausage and garlic fills the kitchen. The broth tastes rich and savory, with soft cubes of potato and a pop of green from wilted kale or spinach. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feels like a hug on a cold day.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving:

Calories per serving: 335 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 780 mg

Why Make This Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

This soup is simple to make and deeply satisfying. It uses pantry staples and a single pot. The sausage adds savory depth and a little spice. Potatoes give the soup body and a creamy bite. Kale or spinach adds color and a fresh, slightly bitter note. The soup is warm, fragrant, and filling — perfect for busy nights or when you need comfort food without fuss.

How to Make Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

This recipe moves quickly. Browning the sausage first builds flavor. Simmering lets the potatoes soften and the flavors blend. Adding greens at the end keeps them bright and tender. Follow the steps below for best results.

Ingredients:

1 pound Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
4 medium potatoes, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups kale or spinach
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the 1 pound Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This develops a deep, savory base.

Step 2: Sautéing and Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Stir often to avoid browning the garlic too much.

Step 3: Simmering the Vegetables

Stir in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and the 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Finishing and Serving

Add the 2 cups kale or spinach and cook an additional 5 minutes, until wilted. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

How to Serve Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Serve in deep bowls and finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat. A chunk of crusty bread or a garlic baguette makes a great side. For a heartier meal, pair with a simple green salad. If you enjoy baked dishes, try this Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole for a different take.

How to Store Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace; liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until simmering. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the potatoes intact.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Brown the sausage well. The browned bits add deep flavor to the broth.
Cut potatoes into even pieces so they cook evenly.
Use a mix of russet and Yukon gold for a creamy texture.
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few potato pieces against the pot wall and stir.
Taste and adjust salt near the end, especially if your broth or sausage is already salty.
Add greens last so they stay bright and slightly tender.
For a creamier finish, stir in ½ cup of cream or a splash of milk at the end.

Delicious Variations

Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a chopped jalapeño and red pepper flakes.
Creamy: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or 1 cup half-and-half right at the end.
Vegetarian: Swap sausage for a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. Add white beans for protein.
Bean boost: Add a can of cannellini or navy beans for heartiness.
Sweet potato: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and orange color.
Tomato-free: Omit the canned tomatoes and add an extra cup of broth and a splash of vinegar to brighten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage?
A: Yes. Ground turkey or chicken sausage works well. Browning may produce less fat, so add 1 tablespoon olive oil if the pan is dry.

Q: How can I make the soup less salty?
A: Use low-sodium chicken broth and check the sausage’s sodium content. Taste before adding salt. If the soup is too salty, add peeled, raw potato chunks and simmer a few minutes; they can absorb some salt (discard the chunks before serving if needed).

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
A: Yes. Brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic first. Transfer to a slow cooker, add the rest, and cook on low 4–6 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook on high for 8 minutes and quick release.

Q: How do I thicken this soup without cream?
A: Mash a cup of the cooked potatoes against the pot to release starch and thicken naturally. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with cold water and whisk into simmering soup until it thickens.

Q: Will the potatoes fall apart if I reheat the soup?
A: Potatoes can soften further after freezing or long storage. To keep texture, undercook potatoes slightly on the first cook. Reheat gently and add a few fresh diced potatoes to cook in the reheating step for firmer pieces.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes. Celery, bell peppers, zucchini, or leeks are good additions. Add firmer vegetables earlier and delicate ones near the end.

Conclusion

This Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is easy, flavorful, and perfect for chilly nights. It fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delivers a warm, savory bowl that’s both simple and satisfying. If you want another take on sausage and potatoes, check out this recipe: Sausage Potato Soup – The Cozy Cook. Give the soup a try — it’s forgiving, flexible, and ready to become one of your go-to comfort meals. Enjoy!