Name: Potato and Sausage Chowder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 400g (6) chicken or turkey sausage; 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 light cream or half-and-half; salt to taste

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If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, then this Potato and Sausage Chowder might just be your new favorite recipe! Picture this: a chilly evening, and you have a steaming bowl of hearty chowder waiting for you. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic chowder, swapping out seafood for savory sausage. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone needs a little extra warmth.

What I love most about this chowder is how it brings everyone together. It’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy. So gather around the table, because once you try this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: This chowder is full of wholesome ingredients that will keep you satisfied.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and savory flavors of the sausage.
Versatile: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe fits any occasion!
Make Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and reheat for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously comforting chowder. You might already have some of them in your pantry!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy!

Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale right before serving for an extra nutrient boost.
Change up the grains: If wild rice isn’t available, feel free to use brown rice or quinoa instead.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you’re craving some heat!

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. 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 on the outside. This step is essential because browning adds depth of flavor to your chowder. If there’s excess fat from fatty sausages, be sure to drain some off but leave about two tablespoons in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, toss in your chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook these lovely vegetables over low heat for about ten minutes until they start to soften. Then add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another thirty seconds until fragrant. Sprinkling flour over these veggies helps thicken your chowder later on—it’s all about creating that creamy goodness!

Step 3: Combine with Stock

Pour just a bit of chicken stock into the pot while stirring well to combine with the flour mixture, creating what we call a roux. Once it’s all mixed together smoothly, add in the rest of your stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for thirty minutes—this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those cubed potatoes! Stir them into your simmering concoction and let everything cook together for another fifteen minutes until both the wild rice and potatoes are tender. The potatoes will absorb all those delicious flavors while adding heartiness to each spoonful.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Finally, pour in that luscious light cream or half-and-half you’ve been saving! Season generously with salt and pepper as needed—taste as you go! Allow it all to warm through before taking off heat. Serve hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for that perfect finish.

Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Potato and Sausage Chowder!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Making chowder is all about creating layers of flavor, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Potato and Sausage Chowder to the next level!

Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of your chowder hinges on your choice of sausage. Opt for fresh, high-quality varieties that are packed with herbs and spices for a richer taste.
Don’t rush the vegetables: Take your time sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots. This step builds a flavorful base for your chowder, allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetables to shine through.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply let it simmer longer to reduce liquid or add a bit more flour at the beginning. Conversely, you can add more stock or cream if you like it lighter.
Experiment with herbs: While thyme is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like rosemary or parsley for added depth. Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavors just before serving.
Make it ahead: Chowder often tastes even better the next day! Make your chowder in advance and let it rest in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently before serving to bring back that comforting warmth.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your chowder is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can present this dish beautifully and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness to each bowl.
Crumbled crackers or croutons: Adding a crunchy element not only provides texture but also enhances the overall eating experience.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into that creamy chowder. Choose sourdough or whole grain for added flavor.
Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a delicious contrast; try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with savory chowders, adding a delightful touch of sweetness to each bite.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy making this comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for days to come!

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chowder to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the chowder cool completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
Heat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Add a splash of cream or stock if it becomes too thick.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Potato and Sausage Chowder that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of sausage, such as turkey or chicken sausage, to customize this recipe to your taste.

How can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder healthier?

You can lighten up this chowder by using low-fat cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of regular cream and adding more vegetables like spinach or kale.

Can I prepare Potato and Sausage Chowder ahead of time?

Yes! This chowder is great for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later.

What can I serve with Potato and Sausage Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even some homemade biscuits for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder as much as I do! It’s a delightful bowlful that brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or just treating yourself after a long day, this chowder promises to be a hit. Happy cooking!