Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the crumbled Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
3️⃣ Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4️⃣ Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
5️⃣ Season to Taste: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your preference. You can also adjust the seasonings with any other spices you like (e.g., red pepper flakes for heat or dried herbs for extra flavor).
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of the Italian Sausage Potato Soup with Carrots & Spinach. Serve with crusty bread for dipping!
Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage Potato Soup:
- Use Lean Sausage: For a slightly lighter version, use lean Italian sausage or turkey sausage. You can still get all the flavor without as much fat.
- Add Cream for a Richer Soup: For a creamier texture, stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables like celery, zucchini, or peas, depending on what you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love Italian Sausage Potato Soup:
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of sausage, potatoes, and vegetables makes for a filling meal that’s sure to keep you full.
- Packed with Flavor: The savory sausage and garlic infuse the broth with rich, comforting flavors, while the spinach adds a pop of freshness.
- Quick and Easy: This soup is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, so you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQ About Italian Sausage Potato Soup:
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other types of sausage, such as turkey or chicken sausage, for a lighter version or even with a non-spicy sausage if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the spinach if freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated.
Can I add dairy to make it creamier?
Yes, adding a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking can make this soup extra creamy and rich.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Soup is Too Thin?
If your soup turns out too thin, you can thicken it by mashing a few of the potatoes and stirring them back into the soup, or by simmering it uncovered to let some of the liquid evaporate.
Sausage is Too Greasy?
If you find that the sausage is too greasy, you can drain off the excess fat after browning it before continuing with the recipe.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Spicy Italian Sausage Soup: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your soup a kick.
- Cheesy Italian Sausage Potato Soup: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and replace it with additional vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.
Why Italian Sausage Potato Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion:
This soup is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day and is sure to please everyone around the table with its hearty flavors and satisfying ingredients.
Success with Italian Sausage Potato Soup:
This hearty soup is easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of sausage, potatoes, and spinach makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends on social media, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
