Smoked Sausage Potato Soup – Quick Delicious Meals

When it comes to enjoying smoked sausage potato soup, pairing the right sides can really elevate the meal. A loaf of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth, adding an extra layer of flavor to each spoonful. 

After all, who doesn’t love a good bread side to complement a hearty soup?

A simple green salad is another great choice. Light and crisp with a tangy vinaigrette, it balances the richness of the soup beautifully. Choosing greens like arugula or spinach, topped with a lemon dressing, adds brightness to the dish and refreshes the palate.

For a delightful textural contrast, roasted vegetables are an excellent pairing. The slight sweetness of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts matches the smoky notes in the soup perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.

Why This Recipe Works

Let me share a bit about why I think this recipe shines. Cooked thoughtfully, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Here are four compelling reasons:

Hearty Base: The potatoes serve as the foundation of the soup. They provide creaminess and help to thicken the broth, making every bite satisfying.

Flavor Explosion: With the addition of smoked kielbasa, every spoonful delivers a burst of rich, smoky flavor. Combined with spices like smoked paprika, it elevates the entire dish.

Nutritional Value: This soup is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of corn, celery, and carrots adds dietary fiber and vitamins, ensuring it’s a balanced meal.

Easy to Prepare: This dish is straightforward to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, dinner can be on the table in no time.

How Does It Taste?

If you’re curious about the taste, let me tell you, it’s a delightful marriage of savory and smoky notes. There’s a touch of creaminess from the potatoes and milk, which is beautifully balanced by the richness of the sausage. 

The subtle spices punctuate the flavors without overwhelming them. Each spoonful carries warmth and comfort, reminiscent of cozy gatherings.

What Sets This Recipe Apart?

Now, let’s explore what makes my smoked sausage potato soup different from other variations you might find. First off, using full-fat milk instead of heavy cream gives the soup a nice creaminess without feeling overly heavy.

The addition of garlic and onion powder subtly enhances the overall flavor without the need for extra chopping and prep work. Lastly, I believe in the power of cheese, and adding sharp cheddar not only creates a beautiful richness but also layers in a delightful tanginess.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you are going to need for this comforting bowl of goodness:

– 2 cups frozen sweet corn

– 1/2 pound smoked kielbasa, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1-1/2 cups chicken stock

– 1-1/2 cups full-fat milk

– 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced

– 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced

– 1/4 cup sliced carrots

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 2/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley

– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

With these flavors, we’re positioned to create something truly delightful.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering your ingredients. Wash and peel the potatoes, then dice them into manageable chunks. 

Cut the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Get the corn and chop your celery and carrots. Pro tip: prepping everything ahead makes the process smoother and much more enjoyable!

Step 2: Start Cooking the Sausage

In a large pot over medium heat, add the kielbasa. Sauté until it turns golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential; it enhances the sausage’s flavor and begins to build the soup’s savory base.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the sausage is ready, toss in the diced potatoes, corn, celery, and carrots. Stir everything together. The colors are stunning, right? Allow them to cook for a few minutes. This helps soften the veggies and infuses them with the sausage’s flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Next, add the chicken stock. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Cover the pot to speed up the cooking process. Cooking the potatoes gently in the broth helps them absorb all that delicious flavor.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

After about 10-15 minutes, or when the potatoes are tender, stir in the full-fat milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow everything to cook for another 5-10 minutes, letting the soup thicken slightly.

Step 6: Stir in the Cheese

Once the soup has thickened, add the shredded sharp cheddar. Stir until it melts completely. This gives the dish that creamy, cheesy goodness that we all love.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. You now have a bowl of comfort ready to enjoy!

Notes

Here are a few tips to ensure your soup is the best it can be:

Sauté More: If you can, sauté the celery and carrots briefly with the sausage for an even deeper flavor.

Check Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth. Conversely, add more for a thinner consistency.

Spice it Up: You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

Let it Cool: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. This helps avoid excess condensation in the container.

Top it Off: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top for extra flavor.

How Do You Store This Smoked Sausage Potato Soup?

Allow the soup to cool entirely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. 

When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or milk because the soup can thicken in the fridge.

Sides for Smoked Sausage Potato Soup

Here are three fantastic sides to serve with your soup:

Garlic Bread: It’s perfect for dipping into the soup. You can make it from scratch or buy a ready-made loaf to toast for extra crunch.

Caesar Salad: A simple Caesar salad can be a refreshing partner for the soup. The crunch of romaine and the tangy dressing contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Cheese Quesadilla: A cheesy quesadilla cut into triangles can be fun to dip into the soup. It’s easy to whip up and adds some zest to the meal.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Let’s say you’re in the midst of preparing this tasty dish but find out you don’t have all the ingredients on hand. No worries! Here are some substitutes:

1. Turkey Sausage: Swap out the smoked kielbasa for turkey sausage for a lighter option. It still brings a lovely flavor without the extra fat.
   
2. Vegetable Broth: If you need a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well instead of chicken stock. The flavor remains rich and delicious.
   
3. Plant-Based Milk: Almond or oat milk are great substitutes for full-fat milk if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option. They can provide a creamy texture, too.
   
4. Sweet Potatoes: If you’re running low on regular potatoes, sweet potatoes are an excellent alternative. They add a hint of sweetness that can complement the spice of the soup nicely.
   

Conclusion

There you have it! A comforting, hearty smoked sausage potato soup that is as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat. This dish has ingrained itself in my regular rotation, bringing warmth and satisfaction to my dinner table. 

Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or seeking a satisfying meal, this soup delivers in taste and comfort.

I can’t wait for you to give it a try. May your cooking adventures be plentiful and delicious! Happy cooking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Chipotle Corn Salsa
• How to Make Shredded Chicken and Rice
• Best Quick and Easy Asparagus Soup Recipe