Potato Sausage Chowder: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, look no further than this Potato Sausage Chowder: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe. There’s something magical about a big pot of chowder simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with comforting aromas. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s perfect for chilly days, family gatherings, or even just a busy weeknight when you want something hearty but easy to prepare. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, you’ll understand why it’s so special!

Imagine spooning out creamy chowder filled with tender potatoes and flavorful sausage, topped off with fresh parsley and cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this chowder comes together in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and creamy texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chowder can be made in advance and reheats beautifully.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of smoked sausage and herbs creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Gather these goodies for an unforgettable chowder:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or andouille, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)
• Crispy bacon crumbles, for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this chowder is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the sausage altogether and add more veggies like carrots or corn.
• Change up the potatoes: Try red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition.

How to Make Potato Sausage Chowder: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Then toss in those sliced sausages! Cooking them until browned takes about 5–7 minutes. This step is crucial because it enhances their flavor and adds delicious bits to your chowder.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Next up, add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir occasionally until it’s softened and translucent—this should take another 5–7 minutes. Scraping up any browned bits from the bottom gives your chowder extra depth!

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Now it’s time for garlic! Add the minced cloves to the pot and cook for about a minute until fragrant. This step adds an aromatic foundation that makes everything smell divine.

Step 4: Add Broth and Water

Pour in those four cups of chicken broth along with two cups of water. Stir it all together so that everything gets well combined.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Spices

Now we bring in our star ingredient—potatoes! Add them along with dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Stir well to incorporate all those flavors!

Step 6: Simmer

Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are tender. This slow cooking allows all those lovely flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Mash Some Potatoes (Optional)

For an even creamier texture, consider mashing about one cup of cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher. This adds thickness without needing extra flour!

Step 8: Make a Slurry

In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, and flour until smooth. This slurry helps thicken our chowder while keeping it creamy.

Step 9: Add the Slurry

Slowly pour this cream mixture into your pot while stirring constantly—this will prevent lumps from forming while adding richness.

Step 10: Return the Sausage

Bring back those browned sausages into the mix! They’ll soak up all that creamy goodness as they heat through.

Step 11: Simmer Again

Increase your heat to medium and let it simmer again for another five to seven minutes; stir frequently so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 12: Season to Taste

Now’s your chance to season! Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 13: Adjust Consistency (If Needed)

If you find that your chowder is too thick, just add a little more milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency!

Step 14: Serve

Ladle that delicious chowder into bowls and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or crispy bacon crumbles if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoy every warm bite of this hearty Potato Sausage Chowder; it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your household!

Pro Tips for Making Potato Sausage Chowder: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Making this chowder is a breeze, but a few tips can help elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose Quality Sausage: Using a high-quality smoked sausage enhances the flavor of your chowder significantly. Look for ones that are made with natural ingredients and have a good balance of spices.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow the onions to become translucent and aromatic before adding garlic. This step builds a flavor base that makes the chowder rich and inviting.

• Mash Some Potatoes: For a creamier texture, consider mashing a portion of the potatoes against the side of the pot. This helps thicken the chowder naturally without needing additional flour.

• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s difficult to fix an overly salty chowder.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chowder to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish.

How to Serve Potato Sausage Chowder: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Serving your potato sausage chowder right can make all the difference in creating an inviting meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melting some cheese on top creates a delightful savory layer that complements the creamy broth perfectly.
• Crispy bacon crumbles: While optional, adding these at serving time offers an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the chowder, soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder and adds a refreshing touch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts create a wonderful texture contrast and enhance nutritional value.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs wonderfully with chowder and offers a satisfying bite alongside each spoonful.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your potato sausage chowder will not only be hearty and delicious but also an experience your family and friends will love! Enjoy every comforting bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep any garnishes separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Divide into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Remember to leave some space in the containers as the chowder will expand when frozen.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If it thickens too much while reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of sausage in Potato Sausage Chowder?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.

How can I make my Potato Sausage Chowder thicker?

To achieve a creamier texture, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot or add a slurry made from cream and flour, as outlined in the recipe.

Is Potato Sausage Chowder suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This chowder stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my Potato Sausage Chowder?

Consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro can also elevate its flavor profile!

How long does Potato Sausage Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your chowder will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty and delicious Potato Sausage Chowder as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out—perfect for sharing with family and friends on chilly days. Don’t hesitate to try different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

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