Description
This Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a hearty, easy-to-make meal perfect for chilly days. Packed with flavorful Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and nutritious greens like kale or spinach, all simmered in a creamy broth and finished with Parmesan cheese. This comforting soup comes together quickly and makes a satisfying dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, for sautéing)
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
Seasonings
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage & Aromatics: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. If excess grease accumulates, drain it for a cleaner soup base. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and cooked through.
- Finish with Cream & Greens: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale or spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes so the greens wilt and the flavors meld together. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm alongside crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup with less fat.
- For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Kale adds a hearty texture, while spinach offers a milder flavor—choose based on preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner soup consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian sausage soup, potato soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy dinner, kale soup, spinach soup, hearty soup
