Name: Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 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; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, for sautéing); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 13 reviews

If you love soul-warming meals that fill your kitchen with savory scents and invite everyone to the table, you’re in for a treat with this Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup. With chunks of golden potatoes, ribbons of kale, and the rich flavor of Italian sausage all swimming in a dreamy, creamy broth, this dish is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Not only is it incredibly comforting and easy to prepare, but it also packs major flavor—reminiscent of those favorite Italian soups you find in cozy trattorias. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll know why everyone raves about this hearty bowl of comfort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup plays a starring role—come together, they create layers of texture and savory goodness that make this soup irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few kitchen-tested tips so your bowl turns out perfect every time.

Italian sausage (1 lb): Choose mild for a classic taste or spicy if you like a gentle heat; sausage gives the soup its heartiness and flavor.
Onion (1 small, diced): This simple base ingredient adds sweetness and depth to the broth as it cooks down.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Never skip this—it infuses your whole pot with irresistible aroma and classic Italian flavor.
Potatoes (4 cups, diced): Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes turn tender and soak up the savory flavors of the soup beautifully.
Chicken broth (4 cups): Use a good-quality broth, as it forms the backbone of your soup’s taste.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Or use half-and-half for a lighter option; this makes the soup luscious and creamy.
Kale or spinach (2 cups, chopped): Greens bring balance, color, and a fresh bite to each spoonful.
Salt (1/2 tsp, adjust to taste): Seasoning is key—taste as you go!
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): A little pepper rounds out the flavors.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): Add only if you want extra heat—just a dash goes a long way.
Olive oil (1 tbsp, if needed): Use this if your sausage is lean; it keeps aromatics from sticking while sautéing.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Brings savory, cheesy magic to finish each bowl—don’t skip this garnish!

How to Make Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Cook Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your Italian sausage and cook until it’s browned and crumbly, letting all those incredible sausage flavors render into the pan. If you see a lot of grease, drain the excess—but if you’re using a leaner sausage, drizzle a little olive oil to keep things moving. Now add the diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until aromatic—about 30 seconds—so it doesn’t burn but releases all its deliciousness. This step builds a gorgeous, savory backbone for your Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup.

Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes

Once your kitchen smells irresistible, add in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—these are gold for flavor. Turn up the heat until it starts to boil, then drop it to a simmer. Let everything bubble gently for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. During this stage, your soup really starts to come together as the broth absorbs the flavors of sausage and vegetables.

Step 3: Finish with Cream and Greens

Now it’s time for the finishing touches that make this Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup so dreamy. Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you’d rather go lighter). Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and simmer for five more minutes, just until the greens are wilted and vivid. Don’t forget to season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little warmth. Everything should look lush, rich, and inviting—the very definition of cozy comfort in a bowl.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your piping-hot soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the broth and creates a savory finish that ties everything together. Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up every last drop. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone back to the table for seconds!

How to Serve Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Garnishes

The right garnish can turn your Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup from delicious to unforgettable! A handful of grated Parmesan cheese is essential for that nutty, savory kick. If you’re feeling fancy, freshly chopped parsley or a swirl of olive oil adds a lovely touch of color and freshness. For those who like a little heat, a pinch of extra red pepper flakes on top is just perfect.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a nice crusty bread or a buttery baguette is pure magic. For a fresh contrast, a simple green salad tossed with a zippy vinaigrette does wonders. You could even serve a plate of roasted veggies or classic Italian antipasto on the side if you’re feeling extra celebratory.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate the experience of your Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup by serving it in large mugs for a casual gathering, or ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls for a playful (and edible!) touch. Hosting a dinner party? Try mini servings in espresso cups as a appetizer or amuse-bouche—your guests will rave about the presentation and the flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer your Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making the next-day bowl possibly even tastier. Just be sure to keep any garnishes or bread separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

Want to stash some for future cravings? This soup freezes surprisingly well. Ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. For best results, you might add the cream and greens only after reheating, but if you freeze it fully finished, just know the texture may be slightly less creamy (but still delicious!).

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over low-to-medium heat, stirring gently so the cream doesn’t separate. If it thickened in the fridge, a splash of broth or milk will help loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a paper towel to prevent splatters, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for this soup?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is classic for Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, you can experiment with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage if you want a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to check the seasoning, as flavor profiles can vary.

What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to because they’re creamy yet hold their shape, but Russet potatoes work well for a softer, almost stew-like texture. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes are fine too—just avoid anything waxy like fingerlings for this particular soup.

Can I make this soup dairy free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk or any dairy-free creamer you like. Just keep in mind it will slightly change the flavor and texture, but it will remain rich and comforting.

Is there a way to make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Use a vegetarian Italian-style sausage and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. The key flavors—garlic, onion, and greens—will still shine, so your veggie-loving friends won’t miss out on the coziness.

How can I add even more flavor?

If you want to punch up the taste, sauté a pinch of fennel seeds with the onions or add a splash of dry white wine after browning the sausage. A parmesan rind simmered in the broth is another great trick for an extra layer of umami.

Final Thoughts

Few things are as satisfying as sharing a pot of Cozy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup around your table. Whether you’re feeding the family on a chilly night or making a comforting treat just for yourself, this soup is the kind of dish that never fails to please. I hope you try it soon and make it your own—don’t forget the Parmesan, and remember, seconds are always encouraged!