This warm and hearty potato and sausage chowder is perfect for cozy days! With tender potatoes and flavorful sausage, it’s a bowl of comfort you won’t forget.
I love how this chowder fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma while it cooks. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up. Just stir it all together, and you’re set for a tasty meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked sausage: This gives the chowder its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well. Beyond that, vegetarian sausage can be a great substitute if you prefer a meatless option.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creaminess. You can also substitute with sweet potatoes for a different taste or some health benefits, but it will change the flavor profile.
Heavy cream: For a lighter chowder, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free milk like coconut cream or almond milk. Just note that the texture might be slightly thinner with these substitutes.
Wild rice: This is optional, but it adds great texture. If you don’t have wild rice, brown rice or even quinoa can work in its place, though cooking times may vary.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Sausage?
Browning the sausage in the beginning is key. It creates a nice depth of flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Heat your pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add the sliced sausage and let it cook without stirring for a few minutes to achieve that nice brown crust.
- Once browned, remove it and let the fat stay in the pot. This is great for cooking the veggies!
Don’t rush this step; the caramelization makes a difference in the overall taste of your chowder!
How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chowder:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup wild rice (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chowder takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of comfort in just about an hour—perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and tasty. After it’s done, carefully remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pot where you cooked the sausage, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften. Now, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring well to combine the flavors.
3. Make the Chowder Base:
Next, add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and wild rice (if you’re using it). Toss in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes and rice are nice and tender.
4. Finish with Cream and Sausage:
Stir in the heavy cream and add back the browned sausage. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes so the chowder can thicken up a bit. If it gets too thick for your liking, you can always add a splash of extra chicken broth!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and seasoned to your taste, serve the chowder hot in bowls. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder!
Can I Substitute the Sausage for a Vegetarian Option?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based sausage or even diced tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as you may not need to brown the vegetarian option as long, and you might want to add a bit of extra seasoning to enhance the flavors.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though keep in mind that the chowder may not be as rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a cashew cream for a similar consistency.
How Can I Store Leftover Chowder?
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you find the chowder thickens too much upon refrigeration, simply add a little chicken broth or water when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Can I Freeze This Chowder?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding extra liquid if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
