Looking for a warm, easy meal? This Crockpot Sausage Potato Soup is both hearty and simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that fills your home with delicious smells and satisfies your hunger. Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into how you can whip this up effortlessly in your crockpot!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup combines the rich taste of Italian sausage with hearty potatoes, creating a warm and satisfying dish perfect for cold days.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and the convenience of a crockpot, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, making meal prep a breeze.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like kale and potatoes, this soup is not only delicious but also offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile Option: Whether served as a main dish or a hearty appetizer, this soup can easily be adjusted for different dietary needs, including a dairy-free version.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Flavor Enhancers
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
– 2 cups kale, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
When I make this Crockpot sausage potato soup, I gather all my ingredients first. This helps me stay organized.
I start with the main ingredients. The Italian sausage is the star. You can choose mild or spicy, depending on your taste. Next, I peel and dice the potatoes. I like using medium potatoes because they hold their shape well. I also chop a large onion and mince three cloves of garlic. These add great flavor to the soup.
Then, I move on to flavor enhancers. I measure out four cups of chicken broth. This adds richness to the soup. For creaminess, I use either heavy cream or coconut milk. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk is great. Lastly, I chop two cups of kale. This adds a nice green color and nutrition.
Now for the spices. I use one teaspoon of dried thyme and one teaspoon of paprika. These spices give warmth and depth. I also add salt and pepper to taste.
Having all these ingredients ready makes cooking so much easier. Plus, it sets the stage for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
To start, you need to brown the Italian sausage in a skillet. Use medium heat. Cook it until it is fully brown. If there is extra grease, drain it. Set the sausage aside.
Next, you will prepare your veggies. Dice four medium potatoes. Chop one large onion. Mince three cloves of garlic. This mix will add great flavor to your soup.
Assembling the Crockpot
Now, it’s time to build your soup in the crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked sausage to the crockpot. Make sure you mix them well.
Pour in four cups of chicken broth and stir. This broth will give your soup a rich taste.
Cooking the Soup
Set your crockpot to cook. Choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when it’s ready.
About 30 minutes before serving, add one cup of heavy cream or coconut milk. Then, stir in two cups of chopped kale. This will make your soup creamy and add a nice color.
Cover and let it heat through. The kale should wilt and become tender. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make this soup shine, I recommend adjusting the seasonings. If you like it spicy, add red pepper flakes. If you want more depth, try a splash of Worcestershire sauce. For the best texture, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold. They hold their shape well and give a creamy feel.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, present the soup in large bowls. Drizzle a bit of extra cream on top and sprinkle with fresh parsley for color. This adds a nice touch to the dish. For sides, crusty bread works best. It’s perfect for dipping into the hearty soup. You could also serve a simple salad to lighten the meal.
Equipment Recommendations
For this recipe, a 6-quart crockpot is ideal. It gives enough space for all the ingredients. If you want to make larger batches, choose an 8-quart model. For prep, use a good knife for chopping. A sturdy cutting board is important too. Having a ladle on hand helps for serving the soup easily.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage to enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
- Customize Your Greens: While kale is a great choice, feel free to substitute with spinach or Swiss chard based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to give the soup an extra kick.
- Leftover Friendly: This soup is perfect for freezing. Portion out leftovers in airtight containers for a quick meal later on.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the sausage in this soup. Try chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. These swaps keep the flavor while adding a healthier twist. If you need a dairy-free soup, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice, creamy texture without the dairy.
Additional Vegetables
Adding more veggies can boost nutrition. Consider carrots or celery for extra crunch. Corn adds sweetness and texture, too. You can also try different greens instead of kale. Spinach or Swiss chard work well and bring vibrant color.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want your soup hotter? Add chili flakes or hot sauce while cooking. This lets you control the heat. For a milder soup, use sweet sausage or skip the spices. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Adjust until it fits your flavor preference.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Then, transfer it to airtight containers. I prefer glass containers for easy reheating. They keep your soup fresh and tasty. Make sure to label the containers with the date. This helps you track how long they’ve been stored.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing soup is simple. First, ensure the soup is cool. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. Seal tightly to avoid freezer burn. To reheat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir often to ensure even heating.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the soup lasts about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it can last up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or notice a sour smell, it’s best to throw it away. Keeping track of storage time helps ensure food safety.
FAQs
Can I make this soup without a crockpot?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stove. Start by browning the sausage in a large pot. Next, add the diced potatoes, onions, and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir in the cream and kale, and let it heat for another 10 minutes. This method cooks faster, but the flavors will still shine.
Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?
You can use frozen potatoes, but fresh ones are best. Frozen potatoes may change the soup’s texture. They can also release extra water as they cook. If using frozen, be sure to adjust the cooking time. Add them with the broth and check for doneness after about 20 minutes.
How can I thicken the soup if desired?
If you want a thicker soup, try a few simple methods. You can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will create a nice, creamy texture. Another option is to mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Both options enhance the flavor without changing it.
This recipe offers a simple way to make a delicious soup. You learned about the key ingredients, from Italian sausage to fresh kale. Step-by-step, you see how easy it is to prepare and cook. With handy tips, variations, and storage advice, you can customize it your way.
Try different ingredients and adjust flavors to fit your taste. Enjoying this hearty soup will warm you up on cold days. Get ready to impress family and friends with your cooking skill
