Creamy Sausage Potato Soup (Recipe for Printing)

A hearty Italian comfort dish combining savory sausage and tender potatoes in a rich, cheese-infused creamy broth.

# What You’ll Need:

→ For the Soup

01 - 1 lb Italian sausage, mild or hot based on preference
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided into portions
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil or any cooking oil
04 - 1 cup mirepoix or diced carrots, celery, onion
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 4 cups baby gold potatoes, chopped (no need to peel)
07 - 1 tbsp dried parsley or fresh if available
08 - 1 tbsp dried basil or fresh for a vibrant taste
09 - 4 cups chicken stock or broth
10 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 2 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - Salt to taste
14 - Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
15 - 1 cup extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
16 - 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for garnish)

→ Optional Serving

17 - 1 loaf hearty bread, buttered, for dipping

# Steps to Prepare:

01 - In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage. Crumble as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage and drain excess fat.
02 - In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the mirepoix and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
03 - Toss in the chopped baby gold potatoes along with dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil.
04 - Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
05 - In a separate pot, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk while whisking until smooth. Heat until thickens, then mix in heavy cream.
06 - Pour creamy mixture into the potato soup, stirring in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add browned sausage back and adjust seasoning.
07 - Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, with hearty buttered bread on the side for dipping.

# Helpful Advice:

01 - For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
02 - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.