Introduction

Potato and Sausage Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any chilly day. This hearty dish combines creamy potatoes with savory sausage, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, creating a meal that’s both filling and comforting. The smooth, velvety texture of the potatoes melds perfectly with the hearty chunks of sausage, offering a balance of flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner on a cold night or a hearty lunch, this chowder will quickly become a family favorite.

The first time I made Potato and Sausage Chowder, I was amazed by how easily it came together, yet the flavors were so rich and complex. As the sausage sizzled in the pot and the vegetables softened, the aroma filled the kitchen, making it impossible not to anticipate the delicious meal to come. The moment the creamy broth was poured over the tender potatoes, I knew it would be a dish worth repeating.

What I love most about this chowder is how customizable it is. You can adjust the level of creaminess by adding more or less broth or even substitute the sausage for a leaner protein like turkey sausage. The addition of herbs like thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant touch, while a sprinkle of cheese or crispy bacon on top gives it an extra layer of flavor. No matter how you make it, Potato and Sausage Chowder will always be a crowd-pleaser that warms both the body and soul with every spoonful.

Perfect for:

Cold winter evenings
Family dinners
Comfort food cravings
Hearty lunches
Casual gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe

Here’s why Potato and Sausage Chowder will quickly become a favorite in your home:

Hearty and Filling: The combination of potatoes and sausage creates a filling, satisfying dish that will keep you full for hours.
Comforting and Creamy: With its smooth, creamy broth and tender vegetables, this chowder is the ultimate comfort food.
Rich Flavor Profile: The sausage adds a savory, slightly spicy kick to the chowder, balancing perfectly with the mild potatoes and creamy base.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require complex steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Perfect for Leftovers: Potato and Sausage Chowder makes great leftovers, and the flavors only improve the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make Potato and Sausage Chowder:

1 lb Italian sausage (preferably mild or spicy, based on preference)
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups frozen corn kernels
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Italian Sausage: The sausage is the star of this chowder, providing a flavorful, savory base that enhances the entire dish.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the perfect choice because they break down nicely during cooking, contributing to the chowder’s creamy texture.
Chicken Broth: A flavorful base for the soup that complements the richness of the milk and cream.
Heavy Cream and Milk: These ingredients create the luscious, velvety broth that makes this chowder so indulgent.
Frozen Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture that balances the savory flavors of the sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Potato and Sausage Chowder:

Cook the Sausage:

Brown the Sausage: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables:

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

Simmer the Chowder:

Add the Broth and Milk: Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Season: Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Finish the Chowder:

Add the Sausage and Corn: Once the potatoes are cooked, return the browned sausage to the pot along with the frozen corn. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing everything to heat through.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chowder is creamy.

Serve the Chowder:

Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread if desired.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Potato and Sausage Chowder is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways:

With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth.
With a Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the chowder.
As a One-Pot Meal: This chowder is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal on its own, especially with a side of bread or crackers.
Topped with More Cheese: Add an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top for more flavor.
With a Dash of Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the top to add spice.

Additional Tips for Potato and Sausage Chowder

Here are some tips to ensure your Potato and Sausage Chowder turns out perfectly:

Use a Thickening Agent: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes once they’re cooked to give the broth a creamier consistency.
Adjust the Spice Level: For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make it Dairy-Free: To make the chowder dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese.
Cook the Sausage First: Cooking the sausage first helps render some of the fat, which enhances the flavor of the soup.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme, feel free to use it instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Leftovers: The chowder stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the consistency.

Recipe Variations for Potato and Sausage Chowder

Here are 10 variations to try with Potato and Sausage Chowder:

Spicy Sausage Chowder: Use hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick.
Chicken and Potato Chowder: Swap the sausage for diced cooked chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Chowder: Skip the sausage and add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Bacon and Sausage Chowder: Add crispy bacon to the chowder for an extra smoky flavor.
Cheesy Potato Chowder: Increase the amount of shredded cheese for an even cheesier, richer chowder.
Sausage and Kale Chowder: Add chopped kale to the chowder for added texture and color.
Sweet Potato and Sausage Chowder: Use sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter, earthy flavor.
Corn and Potato Chowder: Add more corn for a sweeter, more vegetable-forward chowder.
Creamy Sausage and Spinach Chowder: Stir in fresh spinach for added greens and flavor.
Sausage and Mushroom Chowder: Add sautéed mushrooms to the chowder for an earthy, savory addition.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: This chowder freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Storage: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and become even better the next day.

Special Equipment for Potato and Sausage Chowder

Here are some special equipment items you might need for Potato and Sausage Chowder:

Large Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for simmering the chowder and preventing it from scorching.
Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the chowder without scratching your pot.
Potato Peeler: Use a sharp potato peeler to quickly peel the potatoes for your chowder.
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping the potatoes and vegetables easier and safer.
Soup Ladle: A ladle is essential for serving the chowder neatly into bowls.

FAQ Section for Potato and Sausage Chowder

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or any other variety that suits your taste.
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian chowder.
How can I thicken the chowder?
You can thicken the chowder by mashing some of the potatoes in the soup, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese to make this chowder dairy-free.
Can I use a slow cooker to make this?
Yes, you can make this chowder in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

Potato and Sausage Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory sausage, this chowder delivers warmth and heartiness in every spoonful. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly winter evening or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully filling, and packed with flavor, making it the go-to choice for anyone in need of a satisfying, cozy meal.

The combination of creamy, smooth potatoes and the bold taste of sausage creates the perfect balance of flavors, while the broth ties it all together in a comforting, soul-warming way. This chowder is not only delicious but versatile—add extra veggies or spice it up with your favorite seasonings to make it uniquely your own.

I can’t wait to see how you enjoy this comforting chowder! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this warm dish to life! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made it your own. Happy cooking!