Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is the kind of warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, and it’s made even better by how easy it is to prepare. This slow cooker soup brings together tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a creamy, well-seasoned broth for a family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or relaxed weekends at home. With simple ingredients and mostly hands-off cooking, this recipe delivers big flavor without extra effort.
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Why You’ll Love This Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
This soup is hearty, filling, and incredibly satisfying without being complicated. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the potatoes to become perfectly tender while the sausage infuses the broth with rich, savory flavor. It’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, reheats beautifully, and works well for meal prep. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults enjoy, making it a reliable go-to recipe.
Ingredients for Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
Soup Base
- 1 lb smoked sausage or turkey sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 lbs potatoes (about 6 medium russet or Yukon gold), peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp paprika
Creamy Finish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Optional Garnishes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled turkey bacon
Ingredient Notes
Turkey sausage works wonderfully if you want a lighter option while still keeping that smoky flavor. Yukon gold potatoes give a creamier texture, while russets break down slightly and help thicken the soup. For a lighter dairy option, half-and-half or evaporated milk can replace heavy cream. If you prefer gluten-free, substitute the flour with a cornstarch slurry made from 2 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the sausage into rounds, dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and chop the onion and garlic. If you want extra flavor, lightly brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, though this step is optional.
Step 2 – Load the Slow Cooker
Add the sausage, potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 3 – Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are very tender and easy to pierce with a fork.
Step 4 – Make It Creamy
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth and lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until thickened, then pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir well.
Step 5 – Final Simmer and Serve
Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes on LOW until the soup thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Success
Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. Browning the sausage first adds extra depth of flavor but isn’t required. For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot before adding the cream mixture. Always add dairy toward the end to prevent curdling. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level more easily.
Flavor Variations
Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese at the end for an extra cheesy soup. Stir in 1 cup frozen corn or peas for added color and sweetness. For a veggie boost, include diced carrots or celery at the beginning. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds gentle heat. Swap thyme for Italian seasoning for a different herb profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely to balance the richness. For casual gatherings, set up a topping bar with cheese, green onions, and bacon alternatives so everyone can customize their bowl.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly due to the cream. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is a warm, comforting slow cooker soup made with tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a creamy, well-seasoned broth. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or turkey sausage, sliced
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Slice the sausage, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion and garlic.
- Add sausage, potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in heavy cream until thickened.
- Stir the cream mixture into the crockpot.
- Cover and cook an additional 20–30 minutes until thickened.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream mixture. Browning the sausage first adds extra flavor but is optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~420 | 16g | 32g | 26g | 4g | ~780mg |
FAQ About Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the butter with dairy-free margarine and use full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based cream. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be rich and comforting.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and extra nutrients, especially if you’re using Yukon gold or red potatoes.
Can I cook this overnight?
Yes, cooking on LOW overnight works well. Just add the cream mixture in the morning and let it finish thickening before serving.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Smoked turkey sausage is a great family-friendly option, but chicken sausage or beef sausage also work well. Choose one with mild seasoning for the broadest appeal.
Final Thoughts
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is a simple, comforting recipe that fits effortlessly into busy schedules while delivering homemade flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or warming up on a cold day, this soup is reliable, flexible, and deeply satisfying.