Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall is the perfect dish to embrace the autumn chill. This warm, creamy soup combines tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a blend of aromatic herbs to create an inviting meal. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about wrapping yourself in comfort. The slow-cooker method ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully while you enjoy your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work.
- Rich Flavor: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavors, making each bowl a delight.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your choice of sausage and add-ins.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Using the right equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors over time.
- Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for perfect results.
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 – your choice)
– 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
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
* Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
* Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
* Add the sausage to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth
Place diced potatoes on top of the sausage mixture in the slow cooker.
* Pour in chicken broth.
* Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning blend.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker.
* Set it on low heat for about 6 hours or high heat for 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Once cooked, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
* Allow it to heat through for another 10 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls.
* Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions. Enjoy this hearty meal!
How to Serve Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Serving your Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage can elevate the experience of this heartwarming dish. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or green onions – Chop these herbs finely and sprinkle them on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Shredded cheese – A little extra cheddar adds richness and a creamy texture that complements the soup perfectly.
Breads
- Crusty bread – Serve with a slice of rustic bread for dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up the creamy goodness.
- Garlic bread – The flavors of garlic and butter pair wonderfully with the savory soup.
Salad Pairings
- Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich soup.
- Caesar salad – The creaminess of Caesar dressing complements the soup’s texture while adding a crunchy element.
Beverages
- Herbal tea – A warm cup of herbal tea can provide a soothing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Sparkling water with lemon – The fizz and citrus will refresh your palate between bites.
How to Perfect Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
To ensure your Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.
- Choose quality sausage – Use fresh chicken or beef sausage for maximum flavor. Good-quality meat elevates the entire dish.
- Sauté vegetables first – Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors before adding them to the crockpot.
- Adjust seasoning to taste – Before serving, taste your soup and adjust salt or pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh thyme or parsley added at the end brightens up the dish, making it more aromatic.
- Let it sit – Allowing the soup to cool slightly before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Pairing side dishes with your Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy potato soup.
- Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing your meal.
- Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized treats add an indulgent touch while complementing the flavors in your soup.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
- Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies served with hummus make for a healthy, crunchy accompaniment.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The caramelization from roasting brings out natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the soup’s creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a cozy soup like this. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the Sautéing Step: Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.
- Using the Wrong Potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal! Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t break down properly. Opt for russets or Yukon golds for creaminess.
- Overcooking the Sausage: If you cook the sausage too long before adding it to the crockpot, it can become tough. Lightly brown it just enough to render some fat, then add it in.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on personal preference.
- Neglecting Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds color and freshness. Don’t forget to add these at the end for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
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.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken or turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying that flavorful kick.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth along with your favorite veggies.
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal choices for this cozy crockpot potato soup due to their creamy texture when cooked.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or even spinach can be great additions to increase nutrients and flavors without compromising the recipe’s essence.
How do I thicken my soup more?
If you’d like an even thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is not just hearty but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Give it a try; it’s sure to warm your heart!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall
Warm up this season with our Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage – Hearty and Delicious for Fall! Try it today for a comforting meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken or beef sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, add garlic until fragrant, then brown the sausage. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Layer diced potatoes on top of the sausage mixture. Add chicken broth and seasonings.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and heat for another 10 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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