Italian Sausage Potato Soup with Carrots & Spinach

Craving a warm, comforting, and flavor-packed soup that’s also relatively easy to make? Look no further than this delicious Italian Sausage Potato Soup with Carrots & Spinach! This hearty soup combines the savory richness of Italian sausage with the earthy sweetness of potatoes and carrots, all brightened by the vibrant freshness of spinach. It’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch. Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of this flavorful delight!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Potato Soup

This isn’t just any soup recipe; it’s a crowd-pleaser! Here’s why you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, herbs, and vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Perfect for weeknight cooking!
• Budget-Friendly: It utilizes affordable ingredients that are readily available.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different vegetables or spices.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is both nutritious and filling.

Making the Best Italian Sausage Potato Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Optional: Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season and Finish: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Sweet Italian sausage adds a mild flavor, while spicy Italian sausage provides a kick. Use whichever you prefer!
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not mushy.
• Fresh Spinach is Best: While frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, fresh spinach provides the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as needed.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together even more overnight!

Variations and Substitutions

Want to make this soup your own? Here are some ideas:

• Add Beans: Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans would be a delicious addition.
• Substitute Kale: Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green. Remember to cook it a bit longer as it requires more time to soften.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
• Add a Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Use Different Potatoes: Red potatoes or Russet potatoes can also be used, although Yukon Gold potatoes are our favorite due to their creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Consider adding mushrooms for an umami boost.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Sausage Potato Soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a side salad for a complete meal.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Italian Sausage Potato Soup with Carrots & Spinach is a guaranteed winner! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a warm bowl of this deliciousness! You’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Now go forth and make some soup!