Potato and Sausage Chowder: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort

Posted on November 28, 2025

There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of *Potato and Sausage Chowder* on a chilly day, don’t you think? I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those dreary winter evenings, and I craved something hearty and comforting. As the sausage sizzled and the potatoes simmered, the entire house filled with that cozy aroma that instantly wrapped me in warmth. Each spoonful is like a hug from the inside, with creamy goodness and a savory kick. Trust me, once you try this chowder, it’ll become your go-to recipe for those cold, dreary days when you just want to feel cozy!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious *Potato and Sausage Chowder*. Make sure to have everything prepped and measured for a smooth cooking experience!

4 cups diced potatoes (I like using Yukon Gold for their creaminess!)
1 pound sliced sausage (any kind you love; I usually go for a spicy Italian for a bit of heat)
1 onion, chopped (a medium onion works perfectly)
2 cloves garlic, minced (this adds such a lovely depth of flavor)
4 cups chicken broth (homemade is great, but store-bought works just as well!)
1 cup heavy cream (for that luxurious, creamy finish)
Salt and pepper to taste (seasoning is key, so don’t skip this!)
Chopped parsley for garnish (it adds a nice pop of color and freshness)

How to Prepare Potato and Sausage Chowder

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of *Potato and Sausage Chowder* ready in no time. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1 – Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add your sliced sausage and let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because browning the sausage not only develops amazing flavor but also adds a lovely richness to the chowder. You’ll want those delicious crispy bits at the bottom of the pot!

Step 2 – Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once your sausage is beautifully browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. This will give your chowder that aromatic base that makes your kitchen smell divine!

Step 3 – Add Potatoes and Chicken Broth

Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything, making sure those potatoes are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4 – Simmer Until Tender

Let your soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This is the moment you’ll really want to pay attention—nobody likes mushy potatoes, so keep checking for that perfect doneness!

Step 5 – Stir in Heavy Cream

Once your potatoes are just right, stir in the heavy cream. This is where the magic happens! It transforms the chowder into a rich, creamy delight. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is key, so taste as you go!

Step 6 – Garnish and Serve

Finally, ladle your chowder into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color. It’s all about presentation, right? And there you have it—a gorgeous bowl of *Potato and Sausage Chowder* that’s ready to be devoured! Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Tips for Success

Want to take your *Potato and Sausage Chowder* to the next level? Here are my top tips for getting the most flavor out of this hearty dish!

Experiment with Sausage: Don’t be afraid to try different types of sausage! A smoked sausage adds a nice depth, while a sweet Italian sausage can give it a different flavor profile. Mix and match to find your favorite!
Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in some chopped carrots or celery along with the onions for extra flavor and texture. It’s a great way to sneak in some more nutrients, too!
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavors beautifully. Just toss in a few sprigs while it simmers and remove them before serving. Alternatively, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick!
Make it Ahead: This chowder gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together. So, if you have time, make it ahead and reheat when you’re ready to serve!
Don’t Skip the Cream: The heavy cream is what gives this chowder its luscious texture, so use it! If you want a lighter version, you could try half-and-half, but the richness is worth it.

Variations of Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your *Potato and Sausage Chowder*! Here are some ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even dill during the simmering process. They’ll infuse the chowder with a fragrant aroma and elevate the flavor profile!
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sausage as it cooks. It’ll give your chowder a delightful zing!
Veggie Delight: Toss in some chopped carrots, celery, or even corn for a pop of color and extra nutrition. These veggies not only add texture but also make the chowder even heartier!
Cheesy Goodness: For a cheesy twist, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving. It will melt into the chowder, creating a rich, gooey experience!
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked sausage or add a dash of smoked paprika for that wonderful, smoky depth. It pairs beautifully with the potatoes and cream!
Vegan Option: Swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You can still achieve that creamy texture while keeping it completely vegan!

These variations can truly make this chowder your own, so don’t hesitate to mix and match based on what you love or have on hand. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any *Potato and Sausage Chowder* left over (which is rare in my house, but just in case!), here’s how to store it to keep all that deliciousness intact. Let the chowder cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight so it doesn’t absorb any funky fridge odors!

When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to make sure it heats evenly, and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks a bit too thick. You want that creamy texture back, right? Wow, it’ll smell just as good as the first time you made it! So, cozy up, grab a bowl, and dive back into this hearty delight!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for each serving of *Potato and Sausage Chowder*. Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g

This chowder is not only hearty and satisfying but also packs a good balance of fats and proteins to keep you feeling full. So, enjoy this comforting dish guilt-free on those chilly days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: This chowder is like a warm hug on a cold day—rich, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying!
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can whip this up in just 45 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory sausage and creamy potatoes creates a delicious depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make this chowder uniquely yours. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!
Great for Leftovers: This chowder tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal!