Name: Creamy Potato Soup With Italian Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pound ground spicy Italian chicken sausage – Adds a spicy, savory kick.; 1 pound ground chicken – Lightens up the soup without sacrificing protein.; 2 slices soft whole grain bread – Used to bind the meat, adding subtle texture.; 2 eggs – Helps to hold the meatballs together.; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the meat mixture.; 2 small shallots, grated – Provides a mild onion flavor without overpowering the soup.; 2 cloves garlic, grated – Enhances the overall flavor with a slight sharpness.; 1-2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncinis – Adds tanginess and a bit of heat.; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess.; 1 cup shredded provolone – Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to balance the soup.; 1/4 cup fresh oregano – A fresh herb that enhances the Italian flavors in the soup.

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Creamy Potato Soup with Italian beef Sausage. Packed with hearty Italian chicken sausage, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese, this soup is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep for the week. Its rich flavors, balanced by a hint of spice, make it a satisfying choice that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving a soothing bowl of soup on a cold day or need an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy potato soup is a delicious blend of savory Italian beef sausage and creamy potatoes, topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. It’s simple to prepare, comforting, and bursting with flavors. The combination of tender potatoes, zesty sausage, and rich cheese creates a hearty, satisfying dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your taste, with options for extra spice, added veggies, or alternative proteins.

Ingredients Breakdown

1 pound beef sausage – Adds a spicy, savory kick.
1 pound ground chicken – Lightens up the soup without sacrificing protein.
2 slices soft whole grain bread – Used to bind the meat, adding subtle texture.
2 eggs – Helps to hold the meatballs together.
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the meat mixture.
2 small shallots, grated – Provides a mild onion flavor without overpowering the soup.
2 cloves garlic, grated – Enhances the overall flavor with a slight sharpness.
1-2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncinis – Adds tanginess and a bit of heat.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess.
1 cup shredded provolone – Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to balance the soup.
1/4 cup fresh oregano – A fresh herb that enhances the Italian flavors in the soup.

Creamy Potato Soup With Italian Sausage Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Mixing bowls
Grater for cheese, shallots, and garlic
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Prepare the Bread: Take the whole grain bread slices and run them under water until they’re damp but not soaked. Gently squeeze out the excess water and crumble the bread into small pieces. This step helps bind the meatballs without making them dense.
Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground Italian beef sausage, ground chicken, bread crumbles, eggs, grated parmesan, grated shallots, garlic, chopped pepperoncinis, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well using your hands for the best texture.
Form the Meatballs: Coat your hands with olive oil to prevent sticking. Roll the meat mixture into balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Place them evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish.
Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The meatballs should be crispy on the outside but still slightly undercooked inside.
Add the Sauce: Remove the meatballs from the oven and pour the sauce evenly over them. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the sauce from drying out, and bake for another 15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Uncover the dish, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the meatballs, and top with fresh oregano. Return the dish to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and golden, about 10 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, topped with fresh oregano and paired with crusty bread or your favorite pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-soaking the bread: This can make the meatballs too mushy. Lightly dampen the bread, and squeeze out excess water.
Skipping the foil cover: Baking the meatballs without foil can dry them out. The foil helps to keep them tender and moist.
Not seasoning adequately: Taste the meat mixture before forming the balls. Adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels to your liking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve the soup in deep bowls with a generous sprinkle of fresh oregano or parsley on top for a pop of color.
Pair it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top of the soup for added richness.

Variations and Swaps

Swap the Protein: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative for a different take.
Add Veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
Adjust the Spice: For a milder soup, opt for sweet Italian beef sausage instead of spicy.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this soup with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A cold glass of sparkling water with lemon or iced tea complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce base a day in advance and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, reheat, add the cheese, and bake until the cheese melts.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I make this soup less spicy?
Simply use sweet Italian beef sausage instead of spicy and reduce or omit the pepperoncinis.

Conclusion

This Creamy Potato Soup with Italian beef Sausage is a delightful, warming dish perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and bursting with bold, comforting flavors. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family! If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious, comforting meal ideas.