Hearty Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe

When it’s chilly outside, nothing warms the soul like a hearty bowl of chowder. This Potato and Sausage Chowder combines creamy potatoes, flavorful sausage, and rich cheddar cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this chowder will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

What Is Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a rich, creamy soup loaded with tender potatoes, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables. Enhanced with a touch of heavy cream and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a filling dish that’s perfect as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread. This chowder strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and heartiness, making it ideal for cozy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal prep time.
• One-pot recipe: Simplifies cleanup, making your evening stress-free.
• Comfort food classic: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying for all ages.
• Customizable: Easily adjust spices, cheese, or vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth

Creamy and Cheesy Touch

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Sausage

1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly.
2. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot for added flavor.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables

1. Add olive oil to the pot.
2. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cooking the Chowder Base

1. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher (optional).

4. Adding Creaminess

1. Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring until the cheese is melted and the chowder reaches a creamy consistency.

5. Serving

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with parsley or green onions.
3. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this chowder with warm sourdough bread or buttermilk biscuits for a complete meal.
• Add a side of mixed greens salad to balance the richness of the chowder.
• For an extra treat, serve with a sprinkle of crisp bacon bits on top.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing Instructions

• To freeze, portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken broth and sausage are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free shredded cheese.
• Vegetarian: Substitute sausage with a plant-based alternative or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or corn.
• Spicy Twist: Use hot sausage and add red chili flakes for a kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, slice or crumble pre-cooked sausage and add it during the final simmering step.

2. How do I thicken the chowder further?
Mash additional potatoes or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese would work well.

This Hearty Potato and Sausage Chowder is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try it today and savor the cozy, home-cooked goodness! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists in the comments below!

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