When the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall. This creamy, savory soup is perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings, warming hearts and stomachs alike. With minimal effort required, this recipe allows you to enjoy rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, making it a versatile addition to your fall cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sausage and spices creates a deep, satisfying taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for extra flair.
- Comforting Texture: Creamy potatoes provide a luxurious mouthfeel that’s perfect for cool days.
- Feeds a Crowd: With generous servings, this soup is great for family meals or gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make this cozy soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that make preparation simple and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Sauté pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients easily.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing vegetables.
- Sauté pan: Ideal for browning sausage before adding it to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s your full list of flavorful wholesome ingredients to make this creamy crockpot potato soup:
– 1 lb Italian-style sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 cups potatoes (peeled and diced into ½-inch chunks)
– Fresh parsley or green onions (chopped for garnish)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning blend
– 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
– ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
How to Make Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
In a sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil.
* Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
* Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Step 2: Chop Your Vegetables
While the sausage cooks:
* Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
* Peel and dice the potatoes into ½-inch chunks.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker:
* Add the browned sausage along with any drippings from the pan.
* Stir in chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cover your slow cooker:
* Set it on low heat for about 6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once cooked:
* Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
* Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls:
* Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy warm!
How to Serve Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Serving your Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is all about enhancing the comforting flavors and making it an inviting meal. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Cheese Topping: Add extra shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, melty finish.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping and added texture.
- Salad: Pair with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Serving Bowls
- Soup Mugs: Use large soup mugs for a cozy feel that guests will love.
- Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve in bread bowls to soak up every last drop.
How to Perfect Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Perfecting your Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage requires attention to detail, but it’s quite simple. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Bold Flavors: Don’t shy away from seasoning! Adjust salt and pepper according to taste for maximum flavor.
- Creamy Consistency: Stir in the heavy cream towards the end of cooking to maintain its rich texture.
- Cook Low and Slow: Allow the soup to cook on low heat for at least six hours. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Texture Matters: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender partially before serving; this adds creaminess while still leaving some chunks.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
- Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add in vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and variety.
Best Side Dishes for Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Pairing side dishes with your potato soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty meal perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, buttery garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts offer a delicious side packed with nutrients.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that balances the savory soup flavors.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a filling side dish that’s also colorful on the plate.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness, providing a sweet contrast to the rich potato soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using the wrong sausage: Always opt for chicken or beef-based sausage alternatives if avoiding traditional Italian sausage. This ensures the flavor remains rich and satisfying.
- Not chopping potatoes evenly: Cutting potatoes into inconsistent sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for ½-inch chunks to ensure they cook evenly in the crockpot.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.
- Overloading with ingredients: While it’s tempting to add extra toppings or vegetables, overcrowding can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to the listed ingredients for best results.
- Not tasting before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage, you’re in the right place!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How long does it take to cook Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage?
The total cook time is around 6 hours on low heat or 3 hours on high heat in a slow cooker.
Can I customize the flavors in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs like rosemary or spices such as paprika for added depth of flavor.
Is this Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage good for meal prep?
Yes! This soup keeps well and is perfect for meal prep since it can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is a heartwarming dish that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed on a chilly fall evening or during family gatherings, this soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen. We encourage you to try it out and make it your own!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with our Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup featuring savory sausage. This hearty, creamy soup is ideal for chilly evenings, offering a delicious blend of flavors with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, creating a comforting dish that will satisfy both family dinners and gatherings. The silky texture of the potatoes combined with the rich broth makes this soup a go-to for cozy nights at home. Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese for an extra touch of flavor, and enjoy a bowl that embodies the essence of autumn.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken or beef sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning blend
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- While the sausage cooks, chop the onion and mince the garlic. Dice potatoes into ½-inch chunks.
- Transfer browned sausage to a slow cooker along with its drippings. Add onion, garlic, diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley or green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
