Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder – Hearty, Savory & Full of Comfort
When I need a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder is my go-to. It’s rich, hearty, and full of bold flavor, thanks to smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy, herb-infused broth.
Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests at a casual get-together, this chowder always delivers.
What I love most is how easy it is to throw together using simple ingredients—yet it tastes like it simmered all day. Serve it with crusty bread or biscuits, and you’ve got a comforting, filling meal everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Potato and Sausage Chowder
🥔 Hearty and filling with tender potatoes in every bite
🌭 Savory and flavorful from browned sausage
🥣 Creamy and rich, but not too heavy
⏱️ Easy one-pot meal, ready in under an hour
🧄 Cozy and satisfying, perfect for any season
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 pound smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
- Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder
🌭 In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pot.
🧅 Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
🥔 Add diced potatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
🔥 Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
🥄 In a small bowl, whisk flour with a few tablespoons of the hot broth (optional, for thickening), then stir it back into the pot. Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the cream.
🧀 Simmer for 5–10 more minutes, until everything is heated through and creamy. Stir in cheese, if using, until melted.
🌿 Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with parsley or green onions, and a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
🥬 Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale for extra greens
🌶️ Use spicy sausage for a little heat
🫘 Add a can of white beans for extra heartiness
🧀 Swap cheddar for Parmesan or pepper jack
🌽 Add corn kernels for sweetness and texture
Tips for the Best Chowder
✔ Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture that holds its shape
✔ Brown the sausage well to deepen flavor
✔ Add cream at the end for the smoothest texture
✔ If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating
Storage and Reheating
📦 Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
❄️ Freeze without the cream and cheese for best texture (add them after reheating)
🔥 Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring often and adding broth if needed
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder is everything I want in a comforting soup—hearty, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but tasty enough to serve guests.
One bite and you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need something warm, filling, and made with love. 🥣💛
