Potato and Sausage Chowder

Potato and Sausage Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a hearty and satisfying combination of creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and flavorful broth. This chowder is a one-pot wonder, perfect for cozy family dinners, potluck gatherings, or meal-prep lunches. Packed with tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and a rich, creamy base, it’s a dish that will warm you up on even the coldest days.

This versatile recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Whether served with crusty bread for dipping or as a standalone meal, Potato and Sausage Chowder is guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The luxurious texture of the broth makes this chowder incredibly satisfying.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with potatoes, sausage, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy to prepare and minimal cleanup required.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Chowder:

• 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning sausage)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet), peeled and diced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

• 1 cup diced carrots or celery for added veggies
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for spice
• Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
• Chopped green onions or parsley for freshness
• Crumbled bacon for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Blend Partially for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup briefly to create a creamier texture while leaving some potato chunks intact for heartiness. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, skip this step.

Step 5: Add the Sausage and Dairy

Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, and optional frozen corn. Add smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chowder is heated through and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, parsley, or crumbled bacon as desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Sausage:

Smoked sausage such as kielbasa or andouille adds a rich, savory flavor to the chowder. Andouille provides a spicier kick, while kielbasa offers a milder, smoky profile.

Potatoes:

Yukon gold potatoes are perfect for chowder due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Russet potatoes work well too, creating a slightly thicker, starchier base.

Dairy:

Whole milk and heavy cream contribute to the chowder’s luxurious, velvety texture. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.

Smoked Paprika and Thyme:

These seasonings enhance the chowder with a subtle smoky depth and aromatic herbal notes.

Technique Tips

1. Brown the Sausage: Browning the sausage enhances its flavor and creates fond (browned bits) in the pot, which adds depth to the chowder when deglazed with broth.
2. Cut Potatoes Evenly: Uniformly diced potatoes ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
3. Blend for Creaminess: Blending a portion of the chowder thickens the soup naturally while retaining some chunks for texture.
4. Season Gradually: Taste the chowder as you add the seasonings to ensure a balanced flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Bread Bowl: Serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, comforting presentation.
2. Mini Portions: Offer the chowder in small ramekins or cups as part of a soup sampler or appetizer spread.
3. Family-Style: Serve the chowder in a large tureen with toppings on the side for a build-your-own chowder experience.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooking can cause the potatoes to break down completely, resulting in a mushy texture.
• Thin as Needed: If the chowder is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds brightness and elevates the flavor of the chowder.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Potato and Sausage Chowder: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu and use vegetable broth.
3. Seafood Twist: Stir in cooked shrimp, crab meat, or clams for a seafood chowder variation.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration is the easiest way to store leftover chowder for short-term use. After the chowder has cooled completely, transfer it into an airtight container to preserve its flavor and freshness. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent any odors from the fridge from affecting the chowder. When ready to reheat, place the chowder in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and to maintain its creamy texture. If the chowder appears too thick, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen it up and restore its original consistency. Avoid reheating the chowder on high heat, as this may cause the dairy components to separate.

Freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage, especially if you plan to batch-cook this chowder for future meals. To freeze, let the chowder cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags. Leave a bit of space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing. Label each container with the date for easy tracking. While freezing doesn’t significantly alter the flavor, the texture of the potatoes might become slightly softer upon thawing. To reheat, thaw the frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it gently on the stovetop. Stir frequently and consider adding a little milk or broth to freshen up the consistency. Avoid freezing chowder that contains certain added toppings, like shredded cheese or bacon, as these are best added fresh after reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Use turkey or chicken sausage in place of traditional pork sausage to cut down on saturated fat while maintaining the savory, smoky flavors that make this chowder so delicious. These leaner protein options still pair beautifully with the creamy base and hearty potatoes, making them ideal for a lighter take on the dish. If you prefer plant-based alternatives, smoked tofu or vegan sausage can also work well while offering a different spin on the classic flavors.

Reduce the dairy content by using low-fat milk, almond milk, or a blend of milk and chicken broth instead of whole milk and heavy cream. This modification will yield a lighter soup while still preserving its rich and creamy texture. You can also experiment with Greek yogurt as a partial substitute for cream, adding both tanginess and protein to the chowder.

For an added boost of nutrients and texture, include more vegetables like spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor profile but also add vibrant colors and extra fiber to the chowder. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their texture and freshness. For a heartier vegetable base, you can also add diced carrots, celery, or parsnips, which complement the potatoes and sausage beautifully. These simple adjustments allow you to customize the chowder to your dietary preferences without sacrificing its comforting appeal.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner

Pair the chowder with a green salad and garlic bread for a simple, satisfying meal.

Holiday Gathering

Serve the chowder as a starter or main course during festive meals, garnished with colorful toppings like parsley and red pepper flakes.

Potluck Favorite

Bring the chowder in a slow cooker to keep it warm and let guests serve themselves. Provide a topping bar with cheese, croutons, and bacon for added customization.

Special Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ensures even cooking and enough space for blending.
• Immersion Blender: Makes it easy to blend the soup directly in the pot.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the chowder neatly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Italian sausage, chorizo, or breakfast sausage can be used for unique flavor profiles.

2. What’s the best potato for chowder?

Yukon gold and russet potatoes are excellent choices for their texture and flavor.

3. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?

Yes, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk as a substitute for the dairy, and skip the cream.

4. Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Reheat gently before serving.

5. How can I thicken the chowder?

Blend more of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken the chowder.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Diced carrots, celery, or green beans make great additions to the chowder.

7. What can I serve with this chowder?

Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or cornbread for a complete meal.

8. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, stir in leftover mashed potatoes to thicken the chowder and enhance the potato flavor.

Conclusion

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a hearty, comforting dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with a satisfying texture. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week. With endless customization options and a timeless appeal, this chowder is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor? Let’s get cooking!

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