Have you ever wondered why some soups leave you satisfied while others leave you reaching for a snack an hour later? The secret often lies in the perfect balance of hearty ingredients and rich flavors that create a truly filling meal in a bowl.
This Potato and Sausage Chowder delivers exactly that satisfaction—combining creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and a velvety broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving something comforting, this chowder soup has become a staple in my kitchen for good reason.
Let me walk you through creating this delicious meal that combines simple ingredients into something truly special. Regardless of your level of cooking experience, this dish is simple to follow and is sure to please.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound (450 grams) of casing-free Italian sausage (either sweet or hot, depending on personal preference)
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For a lighter version, turkey sausage works beautifully as a substitute for Italian sausage. Plant-based sausage alternatives can also work for those avoiding meat. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream can replace the heavy cream with minimal flavor impact.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
This Potato and Sausage Chowder comes together in under an hour, which is approximately 30% faster than traditional chowder recipes that often require longer simmering times. The efficiency comes from the strategic cooking order and the quick-cooking nature of the pre-cut ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat a heavy-bottomed pot or big Dutch oven over medium-high heat. As the sausage cooks, add it and split it up with a wooden spoon. Brown for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink and slightly crispy on the edges. The caramelization that happens during this step creates foundational flavor for the entire chowder.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Without removing the sausage, add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Cook the garlic for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic. The fat rendered from the sausage will help cook these aromatics, infusing them with meaty flavor.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the carrots and celery to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook until they start to soften, about 4–5 minutes. These vegetables add texture, color, and nutritional value to your chowder while building layers of flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Potatoes and Broth
Put the bay leaf, dry thyme, and diced potatoes in the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. After bringing to a boil, lower the heat so that it simmers gently. Cook for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Base
The butter should be melted over medium heat in a another small pot. To make a roux, whisk in the flour and simmer for one to two minutes, until it has not browned but has a faint nutty fragrance. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth, then add this mixture to the main pot, stirring well to incorporate.
Step 6: Finish the Chowder
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the chowder to gradually thicken by simmering it moderately for five minutes. Remove the bay leaf. To taste, add salt and freshly ground black pepper. For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Pour the steaming Sausage and Potato Chowder into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. For an extra touch, a small sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or grated cheddar cheese makes a delightful finishing touch.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Potassium: 720mg
This chowder provides approximately 20% of your daily calcium needs and 15% of your daily vitamin A requirements. The combination of protein from the sausage and complex carbohydrates from the potatoes creates a satisfying meal that helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version with 35% fewer calories, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork. You can also replace half the potatoes with cauliflower florets for reduced carbohydrates while maintaining the creamy texture.
For those monitoring sodium intake, use no-salt-added chicken broth and reduce the added salt, relying instead on herbs like thyme, rosemary, and a touch of smoked paprika to enhance flavor. Adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast can provide a savory depth without additional sodium.
Vegetarians can enjoy this dish by using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. The texture remains satisfying, and the flavor profile stays robust when you increase the herbs and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Potato and Sausage Chowder with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A well-balanced dinner is produced by the contrast between the creamy chowder and the crisp, fresh greens.
Crusty artisan bread or homemade garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping. For a complete comfort food experience, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls—this presentation never fails to impress guests!
For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions in cups as a starter before a main course. This approach works particularly well for dinner parties where you want to offer multiple courses without overwhelming guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the potatoes: They ought to retain their shape while being soft. Your chowder’s texture will be altered by the disintegration of mushy potatoes.
- Boiling after adding cream: This can cause the dairy to separate. Always maintain a gentle simmer once cream is added.
- Under-seasoning: Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The chowder should be well-seasoned but not salty.
- Rushing the base flavors: The foundation of taste that makes this chowder unique is developed when you take the time to properly brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables.
- Skipping the roux: The flour-butter mixture is crucial for proper thickening. Without it, your chowder may be too thin and lack the velvety texture that makes it comforting.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This chowder will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together, making this an excellent make-ahead meal option for busy weeknights.
To avoid burning, reheat slowly over medium-low heat, stirring periodically. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore the original consistency, as the chowder will thicken considerably when chilled.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months, though be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. For best results when freezing, slightly undercook the potatoes and cool the chowder completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Conclusion
This hearty Potato and Sausage Chowder brings together simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables creates a bowl of comfort that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Have you tried making this chowder? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Did you try any of the suggested variations or create your own twist? Share your photos and tag us on social media—seeing your creations is the highlight of my day! And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other hearty soups and stews for more comforting meal ideas.
