Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Potato and Sausage Chowder is just the ticket! This chowder has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The combination of creamy potatoes and savory sausage creates a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying chowder in no time. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to the table, making it an instant hit with kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: You don’t need to be a master chef to make this chowder. It’s simple enough for weeknight cooking but impressive enough for special occasions.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of chowder! Its hearty flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for kids.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this chowder ahead of time. Just reheat it before serving for an effortless meal.
• Deliciously filling: Packed with protein from the sausage and nutrients from the vegetables, this chowder is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder. Each ingredient plays its role in building layers of flavor that will warm you from the inside out.

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

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some spinach, kale, or corn for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the grains: Substitute wild rice with quinoa or barley for a different texture.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick in your chowder.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot. Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks until golden brown. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to your chowder. Once cooked through, transfer it to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook them over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften. This gentle cooking allows their natural sweetness to develop. Then add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir until it forms a paste; this helps thicken our chowder beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Stock & Rice

Pour in a small amount of chicken stock while stirring well to combine with the roux (the flour mixture). Gradually add the rest of the stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a simmer on low-medium heat, letting it cook for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together as we wait for our wild rice to cook.

Step 4: Add Potatoes & Cream

Now it’s time for our potatoes! Add cubed potatoes into the pot and let them cook alongside everything else for another 15 minutes until tender. Once they’re ready, pour in that lovely cream and season with salt to taste. Allow everything to warm through before removing from heat. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top gives a lovely finish!

And there you have it! Your warm bowl of Potato and Sausage Chowder is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it up with some crusty bread for dipping—trust me; you won’t want any leftovers!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Making the perfect Potato and Sausage Chowder can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few pro tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausages enhance the flavors of your chowder. Choosing seasonal produce will not only taste better but also offer more nutritional benefits.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a plant-based milk alternative. This will still provide a creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Let it simmer: Allowing your chowder to simmer longer enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together beautifully. Just remember to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally!
• Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs or spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can add an exciting kick to your chowder.
• Make it ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Presenting your Potato and Sausage Chowder in an inviting way can make all the difference when sharing this warm dish with family or friends. Here are some fun ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds color but also freshness that complements the hearty flavors of the chowder.
• Crumbled crispy bacon alternatives: For those who want that smoky flavor without using pork, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute for a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chowder, keeping your meal balanced.
• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with chowder, making for an indulgent treat.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition while providing a nice textural contrast to the creamy soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create and present a beautiful bowl of Potato and Sausage Chowder that warms both the heart and soul! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether you want to make it ahead for a busy day or simply enjoy the leftovers, this chowder holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool down entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The chowder can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air from bags as possible.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
• If microwaving, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Potato and Sausage Chowder!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite sausage flavors—chicken, turkey, or even plant-based options work wonderfully too.

How do I make Potato and Sausage Chowder more creamy?

To enhance the creaminess, consider adding a bit more cream or even stirring in some cream cheese while cooking. This will give your chowder a rich texture.

Can I add other vegetables to my Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Definitely! Vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so everything cooks evenly.

Is Potato and Sausage Chowder healthy?

This chowder is packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, vegetables, and protein-rich sausage. It’s a comforting dish that can fit well into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, share it with loved ones, and feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!