Hearty Potato Beef Sausage Chowder: 12 Comforting Steps

Introduction

Hearty Potato Beef Sausage Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes and savory beef sausage in a creamy broth. This dish warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings. The aroma that fills your kitchen while this chowder simmers is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether you’re looking for a filling family meal or a cozy dinner for two, this chowder delivers satisfaction with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some reasons to love it:

It’s a wholesome potato beef sausage dish that packs a punch of flavor.
The combination of tender potatoes and rich beef sausage creates a thick potato beef sausage texture that’s delightful.
Easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
It’s customizable; you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
This chowder is a great way to warm up on cold days, offering a comforting embrace in a bowl.
It’s perfect for family dinners, serving as a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

With its savory potato beef sausage notes, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen. Best of all, it falls into the American cuisine category, making it a perfect fit for any dinner.

Ingredients for Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

Gather these items:

1 tbsp olive oil
6 slices thick-cut beef bacon, diced
400g bulk mild or hot beef Italian sausage
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 large carrots, peeled & chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 liter low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
2 bay leaves
3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & 1/2-inch cubed
375ml heavy cream
1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Extra black pepper or red pepper flakes, if desired, for garnish

How to Make Hearty Potato Beef Sausage Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, cook diced beef bacon over medium heat until crisp (8-10 min). Transfer to paper towels; reserve rendered fat in pot.
Step 2: Add beef Italian sausage to the pot. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking apart, until browned (7-10 min). Remove sausage, leaving drippings.
Step 3: Chop onion, celery, carrots into 1/2-inch pieces. Mince garlic.
Step 4: Add butter to pot with drippings. Sauté chopped onion, celery, and carrots over medium heat until softened (8-10 min).
Step 5: Stir in minced garlic, thyme, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Sprinkle flour over vegetables; stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook out raw taste, forming a thick paste.
Step 7: Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth, then add milk and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Add cubed potatoes and cooked beef Italian sausage to pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 9: Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to preference.
Step 10: Reduce heat to lowest. Stir in heavy cream; heat through 2-3 minutes without boiling.
Step 11: Stir gently. Crumble reserved crisp beef bacon over chowder just before serving.
Step 12: Ladle into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately, perhaps with crusty bread.
Step 13: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding milk/broth if needed.

Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning to your liking.
For a thicker chowder, add more flour.
Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Consider using different types of potatoes for varied flavors and textures.

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. To reheat, gently warm over low heat, adding milk or broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Potato Beef Sausage

What’s the secret to perfect Hearty Potato Beef Sausage?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh vegetables and good-quality beef sausage makes a huge difference in taste. For a delicious potato beef sausage, don’t rush the sautéing process; let the vegetables develop their flavors.

Can I make Hearty Potato Beef Sausage ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this chowder a day in advance. In fact, the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more savory potato beef sausage delicious. Just reheat gently before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hearty Potato Beef Sausage?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy. Also, adjust the seasoning at the end to enhance the flavors of your hearty potato beef sausage chowder.

Variations of Hearty Potato Beef Sausage You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

For a healthier alternative, substitute turkey sausage for beef sausage.
Add in seasonal vegetables like corn or green beans for added texture and nutrients.
Make it spicy by including jalapeños or a spicier sausage variety.
For a vegetarian option, replace sausage with a plant-based alternative and vegetable broth.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Slow Cooked Summer Beef. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.