Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage

Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is the kind of recipe that makes coming home on a cold day feel like a warm hug. I discovered this slow cooker magic on a particularly hectic autumn afternoon when I needed dinner to practically cook itself. The combination of tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and creamy cheese created something that tasted like I’d been stirring it all day.

What I love most about this cozy crockpot potato soup with sausage is how the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The aroma of Italian sausage and herbs fills the house for hours, building anticipation for that first creamy, comforting spoonful. This hearty sausage potato soup requires barely any hands-on time, just a few minutes of prep in the morning and your crockpot does all the heavy lifting.

It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food that never disappoints.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Success

I always use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for this recipe because they create the creamiest texture. Pro tip: Dice your potatoes into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

Protein:

• 1 lb Italian-style sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch chunks
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish

Liquids:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Seasonings:

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning blend

Oils & Fats:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing

Dairy:

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Pro tip: I recommend browning the sausage before adding it to the crockpot. Those caramelized bits add incredible depth to this hearty sausage potato soup that you just can’t get from raw meat.

Step-by-Step Crockpot Instructions

I recommend taking just 10 minutes to prep everything in the morning. The crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into bite-sized crumbles with your wooden spoon, until browned all over, about 7-8 minutes. You’ll see beautiful golden-brown bits forming on the meat. Drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked sausage to your 6-quart crockpot.

Pro tip: Don’t skip browning the sausage. This step creates layers of flavor that make this cozy crockpot potato soup with sausage taste restaurant-quality.

Step 2: In the same skillet (no need to wash it), sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. The onion will pick up those flavorful brown bits left from the sausage. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant. Transfer this aromatic mixture to the crockpot with the sausage.

Step 3: Add the diced potatoes to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Troubleshooting: Make sure your potatoes are completely submerged in the liquid. If they’re peeking out, they might not cook evenly.

Step 4: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender when done. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork and they almost fall apart.

Step 5: Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Leave the lid off and let the soup cook for another 15-20 minutes on the warm setting, stirring occasionally. The cheese will melt into the broth, creating that creamy, dreamy texture.

Step 6: For an even thicker, creamier consistency, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes right in the crockpot. Don’t mash them all – leave some hearty chunks for texture. This creates a naturally thick base without needing any flour or cornstarch.

Pro tip: The starch from the mashed potatoes acts as a natural thickener, making this hearty sausage potato soup extra creamy.

Step 7: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with fresh chopped parsley or green onions. For an extra indulgent touch, add a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese or a swirl of cream on top before serving.

Perfect Pairings for This Comforting Soup

This rich and creamy cozy crockpot potato soup with sausage pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming.

Crusty Bread: A thick slice of crusty artisan bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every spoonful of that creamy, savory broth. The contrast between the crunchy crust and tender interior makes each bite satisfying.

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup. The acidity and crunch balance the hearty potatoes and sausage beautifully.

Garlic Bread Rolls: Warm, buttery garlic rolls complement the Italian sausage flavors while adding another layer of comfort to the meal. They’re one of the best sides for crockpot potato soup with sausage.

Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted broccoli or green beans add color, nutrition, and a slightly charred flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup base.

Apple Cider: A glass of warm or cold apple cider brings seasonal sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage during fall and winter months.

More Hearty Slow Cooker Soups to Try

This Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage pairs wonderfully with other comforting slow cooker creations that warm the soul. For another potato-based favorite, the Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe offers similar heartiness with a slightly different flavor profile. Crockpot enthusiasts will also love the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, which combines tender pierogi with smoky kielbasa in a creamy sauce.

For variety at the dinner table, serve this soup alongside the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a spicy contrast, or try the classic Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup for Mexican-inspired flavors. Complete the meal with warm Garlic Bread Rolls for dipping into that creamy potato broth.

Storing Your Slow Cooker Creation

Store any leftover cozy crockpot potato soup with sausage in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to storage containers to maintain the best texture and prevent bacterial growth.

When ready to enjoy again, reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. The soup will thicken considerably in the refrigerator, so add a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back that creamy consistency. I recommend reheating only what you plan to eat rather than the entire batch.

Pro tip: For best results when freezing, prepare the soup without adding the cream. Freeze the potato and sausage base for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat gently, then stir in fresh cream and cheese. This prevents the cream from separating and maintains that silky texture this hearty sausage potato soup is known for.

Common Questions About This Recipe

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