There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder to bring cozy vibes to your kitchen. This rich and creamy one-pot meal is the epitome of homestyle comfort food, perfectly suited for chilly nights or any time you crave something heartwarming. Imagine tender pieces of potato mingling with savory Italian sausage, wild rice, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all united in a silky, creamy broth that fills your soul with warmth. Prepare to savor every spoonful!
This delightful chowder isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also incredibly simple to make. With just one pot and a collection of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a hearty dinner that your entire family will love. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a robust winter recipe, or just a delicious twist on classic comfort food, this chowder recipe has got you covered. It’s a straightforward yet satisfying dish that allows you to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of home-cooked comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender potatoes creates a mouthwatering blend that’s irresistible.
- One-Pot Wonder: This chowder is cooked all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while keeping your kitchen stress-free.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just one hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Family Favorite: Suitable for all ages, this comforting chowder is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious: Packed with hearty ingredients, it provides a nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to help streamline the process. Make sure to have the following tools handy: a large pot for cooking your chowder, a slotted spoon for removing the sausage, and a chopping board along with sharp knives for your vegetables. A measuring cup and spoons will be key for accurately measuring ingredients like flour and broth.
Start by washing and dicing your vegetables, as this will speed up the cooking process. Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, dice your onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped and organized will create an efficient workflow that allows you to focus on enjoying the cooking experience. Now you’re ready to step into a world of delightful flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup cooked wild rice
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground Italian sausage. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula, allowing it to brown evenly. This process not only cooks the sausage but also releases delightful flavors into the pot. Once the sausage is fully cooked (with no pink remaining), use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. When melted, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until they soften and the onion turns translucent. The aroma will be fantastic! As a finishing touch to the sautéing, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that enhances the chowder.
Step 3: Create the Base
Next, sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat them, allowing the flour to cook for about 2 minutes. This step is vital as it creates a roux that will help thicken the chowder later. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth chowder base.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Thyme
Once the broth is fully incorporated, add the diced potatoes and fresh thyme leaves. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer. Allow the chowder to cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. This is the perfect time to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Incorporate Sausage and Wild Rice
After the potatoes are tender, stir in the cooked wild rice and the browned sausage you set aside earlier. Allow this to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, giving everything a chance to blend harmoniously.
Step 6: Add Cream and Season
Finally, pour in the heavy cream, followed by the salt and black pepper. Stir everything well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring you do not bring it to a boil again. This gentle cooking helps the chowder achieve a creamy consistency without curdling the cream.
Step 7: Serve
Your Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is now ready to be served! Ladle the warm chowder into bowls and, if you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it while it’s warm, and get ready to enjoy a cozy meal with family or friends!
Variations
- Protein: You can swap ground Italian sausage for turkey sausage or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a healthier option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with seasoning by adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Cooking Notes
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You may prefer a bit more salt or pepper based on your personal taste.
- If the chowder thickens too much after refrigeration, simply stir in a little chicken broth or water when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this chowder with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- A fresh side salad can balance the richness of the chowder nicely.
Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider browning the sausage with some diced bacon.
- Substituting half-and-half for heavy cream can lighten the dish while still keeping it creamy.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I freeze the Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
How do I make this chowder dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
Can I make this chowder in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is wild rice necessary for this recipe?
While wild rice adds a nice texture, you can use brown rice or even white rice if that’s what you have on hand.
Conclusion
This Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is much more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to cozy up and enjoy life’s simple moments. With each spoonful, you’ll experience the warmth and richness that only a homemade chowder can provide. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, whether swapping proteins or adding additional veggies, to make it your own. I encourage you to gather around the table with family, share stories, and enjoy this wholesome dish together. Be sure to comment with your own experiences or variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!
Print
Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is rich and creamy, perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup cooked wild rice
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and brown it evenly.
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium, add butter, and sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for 6-8 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth, adding the diced potatoes and thyme, bringing mixture to boil, then simmering until tender.
- Stir in cooked wild rice and browned sausage, simmering for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finally, add heavy cream, salt, and black pepper, simmering gently to avoid boiling.
- Serve warm with optional parsley garnish.
Notes
You can freeze this chowder for up to 3 months. Adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 20 g