Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy, this Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is going to become your new go-to comfort food. It’s packed with tender potatoes, bold chorizo sausage, and a pop of smoky paprika that wakes up your taste buds with every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly night or you just want a warm hug in a bowl, this soup has the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying soup. Each item plays a crucial role, from adding texture to layering flavors, so don’t skip the details!

• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and delivering a silky base to build your flavors on.
• 2 chorizo or andouille sausage links (casing removed): Adds that spicy, smoky kick essential for the character of this soup.
• 3/4 cup yellow onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the broth as it softens.
• 1/2 cup carrot (sliced): Offers a subtle earthy sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup celery (sliced): Provides a mild bitter crunch that balances the richness.
• 2 tsp smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that spices things up with smoky warmth.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Gives a fragrant burst that enhances every other flavor.
• 1 lb. Yukon gold or red potatoes (diced): Your soup’s hearty backbone – creamy texture and earthy taste.
• 2 cups kale (stems removed): Adds a fresh, slightly bitter edge and a boost of nutrients.
• 32 oz. chicken broth: The delicious liquid base that ties everything together.
• 1 cup water: Helps adjust soup consistency for the perfect balance.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that complete the flavor profile.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A vibrant pop of green and freshness as the finishing touch.

How to Make Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your chorizo or andouille sausage links (with the casing removed) and cook until they are golden and slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. This step renders out the flavorful sausage fat, which is what will build the base of your soup. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside; don’t discard the oil and sausage grease in the pan, as it’s full of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Spices

Next, toss the diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, minced garlic, and smoked paprika into the same skillet. Stir occasionally for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the vegetables and awaken the spices. Keep an eye on the onions to prevent them from browning too fast; if that happens, add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil to slow things down and keep everything tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes, Kale, and Liquids

Now it’s time for your potatoes and kale to join the party. Stir them in to combine so the kale wilts slightly and the potatoes get a little coating from the spiced oil. Pour in the chicken broth and water, which will create the perfect cooking environment to soften the potatoes and blend all the flavors together.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and cover with a lid to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for around 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This simmering step lets the flavors marry beautifully while achieving the cozy, filling texture you want in a Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe.

Step 5: Finish with Sausage and Seasoning

Once your potatoes are cooked through, stir the browned sausage back into the pot. This allows the meat to warm through and mingle with the rich broth. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving to bring a burst of color and freshness that brightens every spoonful.

How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

While fresh parsley is a classic garnish for this soup, you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for some creamy richness. Thinly sliced green onions or a few chili flakes work wonderfully to add extra layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast that balances the robust warmth of the soup. For a heartier meal, try serving alongside roasted vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests at your next gathering. You could even top it with crispy fried shallots or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add brightness and crunch. Layering in some crème fraîche or avocado slices at the table lets everyone customize their bowl to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers—and you probably will!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy weekday lunches or dinners that just need reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, so double the batch if you want to! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zipper bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious, spicy flavors, perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal in a flash.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If the soup thickens up too much after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! While chorizo and andouille give great smoky, spicy flavor, you can swap in Italian sausage or even kielbasa if that’s what you’ve got on hand. Just be sure to compensate with a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder to maintain the spicy kick.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the sausage with smoked tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke will help keep that smoky, spicy essence alive.

What type of potatoes work best for this soup?

Yukon gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well while becoming tender and creamy, perfect for soup. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets as they tend to fall apart and make the soup overly thick.

Is kale necessary, or can I substitute another green?

Kale adds great texture and nutrients, but you can swap it with spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just add these greens near the end of cooking since they wilt faster than kale.

How spicy is this soup? Can I adjust the heat?

This soup has a pleasant spicy warmth that can be adjusted to your taste. If you want it milder, reduce the amount of sausage or smoked paprika, and for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is exactly the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and leaves you feeling cozy and satisfied. It’s simple enough for weeknights but flavorful enough to impress guests. So go ahead, gather those fresh ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of this deliciously spicy, hearty soup today!

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