Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe

Introduction

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a hearty, comforting soup that combines the creamy goodness of potatoes with the rich, savory flavors of sausage. This dish is a perfect balance of textures and tastes, featuring tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and a creamy broth that’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or just need something delicious and filling, this chowder is sure to hit the spot.

What makes Potato and Sausage Chowder so special is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The beauty of this chowder lies in the combination of simple, fresh ingredients and the depth of flavor that comes from simmering them together. This recipe will guide you through the process of making this comforting dish from scratch, along with tips for perfecting it and some fun variations to explore.

Why You’ll Love Potato and Sausage Chowder

• Comforting and Hearty: This chowder is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy texture of the broth combined with tender potatoes and flavorful sausage makes it a filling meal that’s perfect for cooler weather or when you need a little extra comfort.
• Rich and Flavorful: The savory sausage adds a delicious depth of flavor to the broth, while the potatoes absorb the seasonings, creating a satisfying and flavorful chowder. The creamy base ties everything together beautifully.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this chowder is easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It’s a one-pot meal, which means less mess and easy cleanup.
• Customizable to Your Taste: This chowder is highly adaptable. You can swap out the sausage for another type of meat or make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage. You can also adjust the seasonings and vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday meal, or a gathering with friends, this chowder is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that everyone will love and ask for more.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Potato and Sausage Chowder:

• 1 lb (450g) sausage (such as Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or smoked sausage), casings removed and crumbled
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half (for a creamier soup, you can use heavy cream)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional, for added texture and sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or crumbled bacon for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage to the pot and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. As the sausage cooks, it will release its flavorful oils, which will infuse the chowder with richness.

Once the sausage is browned, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside. Leave the rendered fat in the pot, as it will add flavor to the rest of the chowder.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. This will help release their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the chowder.

If you like, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the pot at this stage for added richness, but it’s optional. The sausage fat should provide enough flavor on its own.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth

Once the onions and garlic are sautéed, add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. The potatoes should be evenly coated in the rendered sausage fat and softened onions. This step helps to build the flavor of the chowder.

Next, add the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter option) to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the broth to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes cook evenly.

4. Add the Milk and Seasonings

Once the potatoes are tender, add the milk (or half-and-half, or cream for a richer soup) to the pot. Stir well to incorporate the milk into the broth. At this stage, you can also add the thyme and paprika, which will add depth and warmth to the flavor. Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste.

If you prefer a creamier chowder, you can use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will thicken the soup and make it richer in texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier chowder.

5. Add the Corn and Sausage

Next, add the cooked sausage back to the pot, along with the frozen corn (if using). Stir to combine, and let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corn to heat through.

The sausage will infuse the chowder with its savory flavor, and the corn will add a nice pop of sweetness and texture. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

6. Taste and Adjust the Seasoning

Before serving, taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more thyme or paprika to suit your taste. If the chowder is too thick, you can add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the chowder is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If desired, top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.

Serve the chowder hot, and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Potato and Sausage Chowder

• Use a Flavorful Sausage: The type of sausage you choose will greatly affect the flavor of the chowder. Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or smoked sausage are all excellent options. Make sure to use sausage with good seasoning, as it will help to flavor the broth.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply mash some of the potatoes as you cook or use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the chowder, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. These can add extra flavor, color, and nutrients to the dish. You can also omit the corn if you prefer a more classic chowder without it.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup. This will add some spice and give the chowder an extra kick.
• Use Whole Milk or Cream for Richness: For a richer, more indulgent chowder, use whole milk or cream instead of skim milk. This will make the soup extra creamy and satisfying.

Variations of Potato and Sausage Chowder

• Spicy Sausage Chowder: For a spicier version of this chowder, use spicy Italian sausage or add fresh chiles, like jalapeños or serranos, to the soup. This will bring a nice kick to the dish.
• Vegetarian Potato Chowder: For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Loaded Potato Chowder: Add extra toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and sour cream to make this chowder even heartier and more indulgent. These toppings add extra flavor and texture to every bite.
• Cheddar and Sausage Chowder: For an extra cheesy version, stir in shredded cheddar cheese into the chowder as it simmers. This will melt into the soup and make it even creamier and more delicious.

Storage and Shelf Life

Potato and Sausage Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more milk or broth if it has thickened too much.

You can also freeze the chowder for longer storage. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Frozen chowder will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Potato and Sausage Chowder

While this chowder is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can make it even more satisfying:

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the chowder. You can also serve it with dinner rolls or garlic bread for a delicious side.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the chowder, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or cauliflower are a great side dish to serve with this chowder. Their caramelized flavor complements the soup beautifully.

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Conclusion

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and flavorful broth makes for a satisfying meal that’s guaranteed to please. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a cold evening or a dish to serve at a gathering, this chowder is a winner. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s the perfect recipe for any home cook. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this classic chowder!