Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, then this Potato and Sausage Chowder is just the ticket! This recipe has been a family favorite for years. The creamy texture combined with the savory sausage makes it a true comfort food classic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying or for gatherings where you want to impress your friends and family with minimal effort.

What I love most about this chowder is how it brings everyone together around the table. With its delightful aroma wafting through your home, you can’t help but feel at ease as you share stories over steaming bowls of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this chowder comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and delicious flavors, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chowder tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of potatoes and sausage creates a warm hug in a bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand to make this chowder your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious chowder. You might already have most of these in your pantry or fridge!

For the Chowder

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavour)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 litre/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 100g/1/2 cup wild rice
• 3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half-and-half
• Salt to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you’re craving a bit of heat.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream instead of regular cream for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot. Using a spatula, break up the sausage as it cooks until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor to your chowder. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate while keeping some fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, add chopped onions, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook them over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften up nicely. This gentle cooking process brings out their natural sweetness. After that, stir in minced garlic and thyme, cooking just long enough to release their fragrant aromas—about 30 seconds will do! Now sprinkle in the flour and stir everything into a paste; let it cook for another couple of minutes.

Step 3: Build Your Chowder Base

Pour in a bit of chicken stock while stirring to combine with your roux (the flour mixture). Once well mixed, add in the rest of the stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook over low to medium heat for about 30 minutes—this allows those rich flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Cream

Now it’s time to add those lovely potato chunks! Stir them in along with more stock if needed and let everything simmer for an additional 15 minutes until both the wild rice and potatoes are tender. Finally, pour in that creamy goodness—your chosen cream—and season with salt (and pepper if desired). Allow it all to warm through before removing from heat.

Serve hot with chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top for that extra touch! Enjoy every comforting bite of your Potato and Sausage Chowder!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Creating a delicious chowder is all about the little details, so here are some handy tips to make your Potato and Sausage Chowder truly shine!

• Choose your sausage wisely: Select a sausage that complements your taste preferences, whether it’s spicy Italian or a milder chicken sausage. The flavor of the sausage will greatly influence the overall taste of the chowder.

• Don’t rush the vegetables: Allowing the onion, celery, and carrots to cook slowly brings out their natural sweetness. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your chowder.

• Use fresh herbs: While dried thyme works well, fresh herbs can elevate your dish even further. Consider adding some chopped fresh thyme or parsley at the end for a burst of color and freshness.

• Adjust creaminess to your liking: You can easily customize the richness of your chowder by adjusting the amount of cream. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of cream.

• Let it sit before serving: If you have time, let your chowder rest for 15-30 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each spoonful even more delightful!

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your Potato and Sausage Chowder is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this creamy concoction that will impress everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up every bowl.
• Croutons or crispy bacon bits: For added texture, top your chowder with crunchy croutons or crispy turkey bacon bits—perfect for those who enjoy a little crunch in their soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. The savory flavors complement each other beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chowder.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chowders. Its slightly sweet flavor balances nicely against the savory notes in the soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your meal while keeping things healthy and vibrant.

Now you have everything you need to create an inviting meal centered around Potato and Sausage Chowder! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious chowder:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label the containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Potato and Sausage Chowder that you might find helpful!

Can I use other types of sausage in Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of sausage—chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives work wonderfully. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the chowder.

How long does Potato and Sausage Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Potato and Sausage Chowder can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it as a comforting lunch or dinner option!

Can I add more vegetables to this chowder?

Yes! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Is Potato and Sausage Chowder suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this chowder! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with Potato and Sausage Chowder?

This hearty chowder pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. It makes for a complete meal that will warm your soul!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth on chilly days or whenever you’re craving something hearty. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices; after all, cooking is all about personal touches. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family—everyone deserves a taste of this deliciousness!

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