Potato and Sausage Chowder

Name: Potato and Sausage Chowder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups diced potatoes (Russets preferred for creaminess); 1 cup sliced sausage (kielbasa or Italian) (Turkey sausage for a lighter option); 1 medium onion, chopped (Chop finely for faster cooking); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic enhances flavor); 4 cups chicken broth (Low-sodium version for less salt); 1 cup heavy cream (For richness; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option); 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) (Cheddar recommended for extra comfort); to taste salt and pepper (Taste as you go for seasoning); for garnish chopped parsley (Brightens flavors and presentation)

Published by Ilyas, Date :

December 10, 2025

Bowl of creamy Potato Sausage Chowder garnished with herbs and served hot.

Soup Recipes

Easy Potato and Sausage Chowder: A Cozy Dish for Any Night

Ah, comfort food. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I remember the first time I made Potato and Sausage Chowder — it was a chilly evening, the sky was gray, and I was curled up on the couch debating whether to brave the cold for takeout. Spoiler alert: I stayed in and made this delightful chowder instead! My house filled with the savory aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, and I remembered just how much I love cooking. Honestly, that’s what this recipe is all about — warmth, comfort, and a bit of culinary magic.

Growing up, my family often dined on dishes that spoke of home and hearth. My grandma had a way of whipping up meals that brought everyone to the table, and this chowder reminds me of those days. I feel like it’s my secret weapon for easy weeknight dinners that still feel special without requiring hours of prep. If you’re anything like me, trying to balance a busy schedule with the desire to cook something delicious, then this chowder is a dream come true!

As the potatoes simmer away, you can imagine the evening unfolding, sharing stories, and wrapping yourself in a soft blanket. I might have spilled some broth on my favorite sweater during my first attempt — oops! — but that just added to the charm of my cooking endeavor. When you enter the kitchen, it’s all about embracing the chaos and enjoying the little “oops” moments, isn’t it?

And the best part? This chowder is super budget-friendly and packed with protein to keep you satisfied. It’s like a full English breakfast wrapped in a bowl of creamy goodness! To be real, it not only scrapes the bottom of your wallet, but it also fills your soul. Let’s dig into why you’ll fall in love with this chowder, get cooking tips, and all the reasons it deserves a spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easily Whips Up in About 30 Minutes: Hello, quick family meals! Whether you’re exhausted from work or just want something simple for dinner, this chowder fits the bill perfectly.
Comforting and Filling: It’s the kind of dish that gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling when the rain is pouring outside. Seriously, it feels like a hug in a bowl.
Kid and Picky-Eater Approved: This is a major win for any parent! The creamy texture, savory sausage, and tender potatoes seem to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Leftover Love: Don’t you love a great meal that keeps giving? This chowder stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that won’t make you feel guilty about indulging in comfort food.
Improv-Friendly: Feel free to toss in whatever ingredients you have on hand. Got leftover veggies? Throw them in. Love cheese? Go wild! Cooking can be about creativity, and this chowder encourages that!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

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There’s something special about combining the earthiness of potatoes with flavorful, sliced sausage. The contrast of textures is incredible! As the chowder simmers, the potatoes become tender and creamy, while the sausage adds a nice bite. And let’s not forget the heavy cream — it’s the secret weapon that makes this chowder rich and satisfying.

When the chowder is done cooking, you can take a moment to admire its wonderful color and texture. It’s creamy with just a splash of color from the sausage and parsley. When you take that first spoonful, you’ll savor the comforting depth of flavor, enhanced by the aromatic garlic and onions.

The beautiful thing is that this recipe is not just your average potato soup; it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table and share moments with loved ones. It’s as much about the cooking as it is about the story it tells — one of love, laughter, and perhaps a couple of kitchen fails along the way.

Ingredients

2 cups diced potatoes: These starchy gems will break down just enough to make your chowder creamy without needing any thickeners. I prefer using Russets for maximum creaminess, but any variety you love will do.
1 cup sliced sausage (like kielbasa or Italian sausage): For that savory goodness! I often go for turkey sausage for a lighter touch, but find your favorite flavor. Just avoid any sausage that is too spicy unless you want a fiery experience.
1 medium onion, chopped: Oh, the sweet, sweet aroma of sautéed onions! They form the base for all that delicious flavor. Go ahead and chop them finely — it helps them cook faster and blends into the chowder beautifully.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a game-changer. Don’t skimp! You could add more if you’re feeling bold.
4 cups chicken broth: Use homemade if you have it; it makes all the difference! A low-sodium version can help you control the saltiness in your chowder.
1 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens. It adds richness and makes the chowder luxurious. If you’re looking for lighter options, try half-and-half, but don’t expect that same indulgent creaminess.
1 cup shredded cheese (optional): I mean, do we even need to debate cheese? It’s a personal choice. I love adding some cheddar for that extra comfort kick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning, but definitely taste as you go!
Chopped parsley for garnish: Don’t underestimate the power of a little fresh herb on top! It brightens the flavors and makes everything look prettier.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t do this: If you’re tempted to add tons of extra salt right away, hold off. Taste as you go! You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
Brand preferences: For broth, I usually grab a box of organic chicken broth — the flavor is unmatched. If you’re feeling extra fancy, make your own! It will take longer, but the results are worth it.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s break down how to make this Potato and Sausage Chowder from scratch, step by step. Grab your apron—let’s do this!

1. Get Ready: Gather Your Ingredients

First off, let’s set the stage. Imagine your kitchen is all set with the ingredients lined up like a well-prepared cooking show. It always makes the cooking process feel a lot smoother. Get your potatoes diced, sausage sliced, onion chopped, and garlic minced. I always like to do this in advance. Less clean-up means more time to enjoy my delicious meal later!

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil (olive oil is a good choice), and toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté these until they become soft and translucent – about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally! Oh man, the moment those onions start to cook, you’ll get that waft of savory goodness.

3. Brown the Sausage

Now, it’s time to add your sliced sausage to the mix. Increase the heat slightly and cook until the sausage is browned, about 4-5 minutes. Honestly, don’t resist the temptation to nibble on a piece of sausage. I always do! It’s a mistake I’m glad I make every time.

4. Add the Potatoes and Broth

Once your sausage is nicely browned, it’s time to bring in the star of the show — the potatoes! Add them to the pot, along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil. It’ll look like a bubbling cauldron of goodness in no time!

5. Simmer Until Tender

Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer! You’ll want to cook the potatoes until they are tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Here’s where you can get cozy — I often snuggle up with a good book or catch an episode of my favorite show while the chowder does its thing.

6. Creamy Goodness Awaits

Once your potatoes are softened, stir in the heavy cream (yum!) and shredded cheese if you’re using it. Let that simmer for another 5-10 minutes, and watch as everything thickens up beautifully. Be sure to keep stirring, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve and Garnish

When it’s all done, ladle that gorgeous chowder into bowls. Honestly, what a sight! Top with chopped parsley for a pop of color. And there you have it, a warm bowl of Potato and Sausage Chowder ready to be devoured.

Now take a moment to appreciate your masterpiece. It’s beautiful, hearty, and smells divine!

Tips for Best Results

Chop Evenly: The potatoes should all be cut to the same size to ensure even cooking!
Let it Rest: If you can, let the chowder sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Taste Test: Always taste along the way! You might find the dish needs a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Veggie Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some carrots, celery, or even corn. It adds a lovely burst of flavor and texture.
Low-Calorie Options: Swap heavy cream for almond milk or skip the cream altogether for a lighter version.
Herbs and Spices: Feeling spicy? Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika! You’ll kick that flavor up a notch.

Directions

Sauté the onion and garlic in a large pot until softened.
Add the sausage, cooking until it’s browned.
Stir in the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
Stir in the heavy cream and cheese (if using). Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

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Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Honestly, this chowder is so satisfying on its own, but who says you can’t add a little extra flair? Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping, or a fresh green salad as a side. To drink, a crisp apple cider or some iced tea rounds out this meal perfectly. To be real, this chowder and a rom-com on the couch create the perfect cozy night in.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re like me and find that you definitely have leftovers, you’ll want to store those in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, I suggest doing it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

What’s better than making this chowder in advance? You can prepare it and freeze portions. Store it in -friendly containers for easy meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat as mentioned above.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on them! You want them tender but not mushy.
Skipping the Aromatics: Don’t forget the onions and garlic! They’re the heart and soul of the chowder.
Not Tasting: A cardinal sin, if you want to enjoy maximum flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use different sausage types?
Absolutely! Go with what you prefer: chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a fancy kielbasa.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the sausage with a plant-based option and the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for a bit of a kick!

Q: Can I use non-dairy milk?
You can! Almond milk or cashew milk can work, just know the texture might be different.

Q: How can I thicken it?
If you want an even thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes or use a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon for stirring
Ladle or soup spoon for serving

Final Thoughts

Making Potato and Sausage Chowder has been one of the best kitchen experiences I’ve had. It’s a recipe that embodies warmth and joy. As you share this meal with your loved ones, I hope you feel that same cozy embrace that I always experience when making it.

Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Whether you’ve stuck to the classic recipe or added your own flair, your version is a reflection of your unique cooking journey. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!