Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Potato and Sausage Chowder. This chowder is a delightful twist on the classic, bringing hearty sausage into the mix for a filling and satisfying meal. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I need something quick yet delicious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this chowder, you’ll want it in your regular rotation!

The creamy texture paired with tender potatoes makes this chowder so comforting. Plus, it’s packed full of flavor and easy to prepare—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and common ingredients, this chowder comes together in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tasty sausage and creamy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Meal: It stores wonderfully in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting and Filling: A warm bowl of potato and sausage chowder is like a hug from the inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Potato and Sausage Chowder is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need:

For the Chowder

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavor)
• 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 Potato and Sausage Chowder is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
• Try different grains: Instead of wild rice, use quinoa or barley for a unique twist.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks until golden brown. This step builds flavor right from the start! Once cooked through, transfer it to a separate plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add your chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook them over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften up. This melds their flavors together beautifully. Next, add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and combine everything until it forms a paste. Continue cooking this roux for a couple of minutes before adding back in your cooked sausage. It’s important to do this step to thicken up our chowder later!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Pour in just enough chicken stock to loosen up your roux while stirring well. Then add in the rest of your stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook on low-medium heat for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Potatoes

After simmering, toss in those lovely cubed potatoes. Let them cook for another 15 minutes until both the wild rice and potatoes are tender. This is where all those comforting flavors start coming together!

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Finally, pour in your cream, season with salt (and pepper if you’d like), then allow it all to warm through before taking off the heat. Serve each bowl garnished with fresh parsley for that extra pop of flavor!

And there you have it—a deliciously creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder that’s sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Creating a comforting chowder at home can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll take your Potato and Sausage Chowder to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausages make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible to enhance the freshness of your chowder.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for a creamier texture without adding extra calories.
• Experiment with spices: While thyme adds a lovely flavor, feel free to experiment! A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth to your chowder.
• Make it ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
• Add greens: For an extra nutritional boost, stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds color and nutrients without overwhelming the dish.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some fun ways to present this comforting dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green not only looks appealing but also adds freshness.
• Crumbled crackers or breadsticks: Adding a crunchy element on top provides texture contrast while enhancing the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chowder.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of your chowder beautifully.
• Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this chowder, making every bite satisfying.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Potato and Sausage Chowder will not only taste incredible but also look inviting on any dining table. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes.
• The chowder can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• If needed, add a splash of stock or cream to adjust the consistency while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Potato and Sausage Chowder.

Can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chowder actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just follow the storing instructions provided!

How do I thicken Potato and Sausage Chowder?

If you’d like your chowder thicker, you can add more flour when making the roux or let it simmer longer to reduce slightly. Adding mashed potatoes or using an immersion blender can also help achieve your desired thickness.

What type of sausage works best in Potato and Sausage Chowder?

You can use any flavor of sausages that you enjoy! Chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages are all great alternatives if you’re looking for lighter options.

Can I substitute ingredients in Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Definitely! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. For instance, corn or peas would make lovely additions!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Potato and Sausage Chowder warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas. It’s such a comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful as you create wonderful memories with family and friends. Happy cooking!