Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Potato and Sausage Chowder is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with tender potatoes and smoky sausage that just embrace you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chowder brings everyone together around the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Even on the busiest days, you can whip up this comforting bowl of goodness in no time. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: Enjoy the delightful mix of creamy potatoes and savory sausage that warms your heart.
• Quick prep: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: This chowder is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat for an effortless meal later in the week.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this Potato and Sausage Chowder so special. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chowder

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 pound sausage, casing removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons flour

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead for a lighter twist.
• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and almond milk for whole milk to keep it creamy without dairy.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cooking until browned and fully cooked through (about 7-10 minutes) not only develops great flavor but also gives you those lovely browned bits at the bottom of the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot. Leave any rendered fat behind (it adds flavor!). Now, add butter to melt and coat the bottom. Next, toss in your chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stirring in minced garlic for an additional 30 seconds brings out its fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen!

Step 3: Add More Veggies

Now we’re ready for more veggies! Add diced carrots and chopped celery into the pot. Cook these for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. These colorful additions will enhance both texture and flavor in our chowder.

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle flour over those sautéed veggies, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes. This step helps cook off that raw flour taste while creating a nice base for our chowder.

Step 5: Pour in Broth & Potatoes

Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Then add your peeled and diced potatoes evenly throughout—each bite will be filled with hearty goodness!

Step 6: Season Well

Season with thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika before stirring again to combine everything evenly. These spices are key as they infuse flavor into every spoonful.

Step 7: Simmer Away!

Bring your mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low and covering the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until those tender potatoes can be pierced easily with a fork.

Step 8: Combine & Creamify

Once those potatoes are tender, add back in your cooked sausage. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk while stirring gently—this is where all that creaminess comes from!

Step 9: Final Simmer & Serve

Allow everything to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully together. Taste test it; feel free to adjust seasoning if needed! Once hot, remove from heat and serve up steaming bowls of potato and sausage chowder garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Enjoy every comforting bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Creating a delicious potato and sausage chowder is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your chowder-making game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your chowder. Freshness brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making each bite delightful.
• Customize your spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick, while more thyme or paprika can deepen the flavor profile.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chowder to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting period makes each spoonful even more flavorful!
• Make it ahead: Chowder actually tastes better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight; just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.
• Blend for creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the chowder using an immersion blender before adding back in the sausage. This adds richness without needing additional cream.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your potato and sausage chowder can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheese on top melts into the warm chowder, adding extra creaminess and richness.
• Croutons or crispy onions: These add a fun crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of freshly baked bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into your chowder, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder, providing a refreshing side.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots offer a colorful complement and add another layer of texture.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chowder, making for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your potato and sausage chowder will not only be comforting but also an inviting centerpiece for any meal. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of milk or cream if the chowder seems too thick after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use a different type of sausage in Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite sausage variety, such as chicken or turkey sausage, for a lighter option while still keeping that hearty flavor.

How do I make Potato and Sausage Chowder gluten-free?

To make this chowder gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with water.

What can I serve with Potato and Sausage Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it on its own as a cozy meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings friends and family together. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste, and share your experience after trying it out. Happy cooking!