Italian Sausage and Potato Soup: Simple Recipe!

Hey fellow busy moms! 👋 It’s Juliette from Busy Mom Simple Nutrition, and today, we’re diving headfirst into a bowl of comfort and nourishment with my family’s all-time favorite: Italian Sausage and Potato Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm, hug-in-a-bowl that’s packed with flavor and so simple to make, even on the busiest weeknights. I remember the first time I made this; my youngest was going through a picky phase, and I was desperate to find something everyone would actually eat!

I needed a solution that was both nutritious and appealing to little taste buds. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of combining the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the comforting heartiness of potatoes. I added a few extra veggies, and boom – the Italian Sausage and Potato Soup became a dinnertime hero! It was a total nutrition win because it was loaded with protein, vitamins, and happy faces around the table.

My kids gave it a thumbs up, and even my picky eater asked for seconds! Knowing I could create a meal that delivered on nutrition and satisfaction made a real difference. Now, I want to share this sanity-saving Italian Sausage and Potato Soup recipe with you, because every busy mom deserves a simple nutrition win! Are you ready to ditch the dinner stress and embrace the deliciousness? Let’s do this!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Trust me, this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity!

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup chopped kale (or spinach)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Potato Soup: Italian sausage, onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, potatoes, kale, heavy cream, and parsley

No worries if you don’t have heavy cream! I sometimes use a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and a protein boost in my Italian Sausage and Potato Soup. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store.

Here’s a Italian Sausage and Potato Soup nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I always opt for lean Italian sausage to reduce the fat content. This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. Potatoes are budget-friendly and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

For a quick ingredient prep shortcut, I often chop the vegetables while the sausage is browning. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a handful of shredded carrots or zucchini to this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup. The kids don’t even notice, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. You might even say it’s a creamy potato soup with italian sausage everyone will love!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Alright, fellow nutrition-seekers, let’s get cooking! This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.

  1. First, brown the Italian sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. I prefer using a Dutch oven because it distributes heat evenly, but any large pot will work just fine for this nutritious Italian Sausage and Potato Soup.
  2. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. Leave about a tablespoon of the sausage drippings in the pot for extra flavor. Don’t worry if your Italian Sausage and Potato Soup looks a little greasy at this point – we’ll skim off any excess fat later.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Italian Sausage and Potato Soup – I would burn the garlic! Now I make sure to add it after the onions have softened.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. This is the perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Italian Sausage and Potato Soup usually takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
  5. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Your Italian Sausage and Potato Soup should smell nourishing by now!
  6. Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale (or spinach) and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds a boost of vitamins and minerals to your Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, making it even more nutritious.
  7. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra creaminess. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I often add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick in my Italian Sausage and Potato Soup.
  8. Ladle the Italian Sausage and Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy! While your Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!

How We Love to Eat This!

My family absolutely loves this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, and I’ve found a few ways to make it extra special. The kids devour this nutritious Italian Sausage and Potato Soup when I serve it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s a simple addition, but it makes the meal feel more complete.

This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I often double the batch so we have leftovers for lunch the next day. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

For a kid-approved healthy side dish, I serve this soup with a simple green salad. It adds some extra veggies to the meal and balances out the richness of the soup. I like to add some sliced apples or pears to the salad to make it more appealing to the kids. This adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory Italian Sausage and Potato Soup perfectly.

This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is also a hit at potlucks and gatherings. I’ve even made it for friends who were feeling under the weather, and they raved about how comforting and nourishing it was. For presentation, I like to sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl. It adds a nice salty flavor and makes the soup look extra appetizing. We also enjoy some Spicy Italian Sausage & Potato Soup (Zuppa Toscana) | The Rising … on occasion.

If you have any leftover Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a seasonal variation, I sometimes add a can of pumpkin puree to the soup in the fall. It adds a subtle sweetness and makes the soup even more comforting. The kids don’t even realize they’re eating extra veggies!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you probably have some questions about making this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, so let’s tackle some of the most common concerns I hear from fellow busy moms.

Is this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup really nutritious enough for growing kids?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from the sausage, vitamins and minerals from the potatoes and vegetables, and fiber to keep everyone feeling full and satisfied. I also add kale or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. My kids are always eager to eat, so it is definitely nutritious enough.

What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup?

Ah, the age-old picky eater dilemma! I’ve been there. Try serving a small portion alongside something you know they already like. You can also let them help you prepare the soup, which might make them more inclined to try it. Cutting the sausage and potatoes into fun shapes is another trick that sometimes works. Getting them involved makes a huge difference!

Can I meal prep this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup for busy weeks ahead?

Yes, you absolutely can! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch on the weekend and store it in individual containers in the refrigerator for easy lunches or dinners during the week. It tastes even better the next day! You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Can I make this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop first. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients (except the kale and cream), and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the kale and cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What are some good toppings for this soup?

The possibilities are endless! My family loves topping this soup with shredded cheese, sour cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also add some crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

You sure can! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor and a boost of vitamins and antioxidants to the soup. Just keep in mind that they might cook a little faster than regular potatoes, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could also try this sausage sweet potato kale soup.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the Italian sausage and add a can of white beans or chickpeas for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. And of course there is always this roasted garlic potato soup.

Final Thoughts:

This Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to nourish your family with simple, wholesome ingredients, even when life gets crazy. It’s become a staple in our home because it’s easy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Here are a few of my top Italian Sausage and Potato Soup Nutrition Hacks:

  • Use lean sausage: This reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
  • Load up on veggies: Add extra kale, spinach, or carrots for a nutrient boost.
  • Opt for low-sodium broth: This helps control the salt content of the soup.

Here are a few family-tested healthy Italian Sausage and Potato Soup variations we love:

  • Spicy version: Use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
  • Veggie-packed version: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

My husband loves the spicy version, while the kids prefer the creamy one. I personally love the veggie-packed version because it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Remember to make it your own! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to find what your family loves best. You can also find some more ideas at Creamy Potato Soup with Italian Sausage – Mantitlement

I hope this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup brings as much joy and nourishment to your family as it has to mine. Remember, you don’t have to be a gourmet chef to feed your family well. Simple, wholesome meals like this can make a big difference in their health and well-being. And of course let’s not forget potato soup with crispy bacon bits.

A hearty bowl of Italian Sausage and Potato Soup garnished with fresh parsley

So go ahead, give this Italian Sausage and Potato Soup a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

 

Print

Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

Hearty Bowl of Italian Sausage and Potato Soup

This hearty Italian Sausage and Potato Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal, perfect for a chilly evening. Made with savory sausage, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish the whole family will love.

  • Author: Juliette
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  5. If using, stir in the chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  7. Serve hot.

Notes

For a creamier soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!