CREAMY ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND POTATO SOUP

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The combination of onions and garlic will help build the soup’s base flavors.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring them with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring everything to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and milk. Add the thyme and oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Sausage and Spinach

Return the cooked sausage to the pot, along with the spinach (or kale). Stir to combine and cook until the spinach has wilted, about 3-4 minutes. The spinach adds a pop of color and an extra dose of nutrients, but you can easily substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you’d like, top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.

Why This Soup Is So Delicious

• Flavorful Italian Sausage: The savory, slightly spicy notes from the Italian sausage provide the perfect depth of flavor and contrast against the creamy broth.
• Tender Potatoes: The diced potatoes are soft and comforting, providing a hearty base that makes this soup feel like a complete meal.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and milk gives the soup a smooth, velvety texture that’s perfectly balanced with the other ingredients.
• Fresh Greens: The addition of spinach (or kale) adds a bright, fresh note to the soup, balancing out the richness with a burst of color and nutrition.

Tips for the Best Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can use half-and-half or milk in place of the heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or oregano, feel free to swap them out for the dried herbs. Fresh herbs will give the soup a vibrant, aromatic flavor.
• Make It Spicy or Mild: You can choose either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference for heat. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the sausage.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Freezing Tips: If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze it before adding the dairy (cream and milk). Once thawed, you can add the cream and finish the soup on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A baguette, sourdough, or garlic bread would be perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or a fresh arugula salad to add some crunch and freshness to the meal.
• Garlic Breadsticks: For a heartier side, try homemade or store-bought garlic breadsticks to complement the soup.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory sausage, creamy potatoes, and fresh greens in a warm, flavorful bowl. It’s easy to make, filling, and versatile, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends and family. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy a comforting meal that’s both hearty and flavorful, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite.

So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness. This soup is guaranteed to make your taste buds dance and leave you feeling cozy all season long!