Sausage And Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that is both nutritious and comforting, this sausage and sweet potato soup is the perfect choice. Packed with the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes and the savory richness of sausage, this soup is an ideal one-pot meal for cool weather or when you’re in need of a satisfying dish. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers on flavor every time. Read on for the full recipe, variations, and cooking tips!

What is Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup?

Sausage and sweet potato soup is a savory and satisfying soup that features chunks of sausage, diced sweet potatoes, and other fresh vegetables all simmered together in a flavorful broth. The sweetness from the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the spiciness or savoriness of sausage, creating a balanced and comforting dish. Often seasoned with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and garlic, this soup is perfect for fall and winter but can be enjoyed year-round. Plus, it's easy to modify, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients List for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic sausage and sweet potato soup:

• 1 pound sausage (Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or any variety of your choice)
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Additional Ingredients for Flavor

To elevate the flavor or add extra texture to your sausage and sweet potato soup, consider incorporating the following ingredients:

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for added heat)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup cooked bacon (for smoky flavor)
• ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper smoky flavor)
• Parmesan cheese for topping
• Fresh basil or thyme leaves for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about sausage and sweet potato soup is how adaptable it is. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Sausage Substitutes: You can swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Vegan Option: For a completely vegan version, omit the sausage and replace it with plant-based sausage or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want to add creaminess without dairy, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.
• Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb diet, replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower or butternut squash for a lower-carb alternative that still delivers great texture.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a spicy soup, use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to cook this delicious sausage and sweet potato soup? Follow these easy steps:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot along with paprika, dried thyme, and a bay leaf. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the seasoning.
4. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly.
6. Add the Sausage and Greens: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, add the cooked sausage back into the pot along with the spinach or kale. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

How to Cook Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Meat First: Start by browning your sausage in a bit of olive oil. This caramelizes the meat and brings out its deep, savory flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Cooking the onions and garlic before adding the liquid helps to develop the soup's rich base. Don't skip this step, as it creates a depth of flavor.
3. Simmer Until Tender: Allow the sweet potatoes to simmer in the broth long enough to become soft but not mushy. This is crucial for maintaining the right texture.
4. Add Greens Last: Spinach or kale should be added towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking them. This ensures they retain their color and texture.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices before serving. A well-seasoned soup makes all the difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Make sure to keep an eye on the sweet potatoes while they simmer. Overcooking them will cause them to disintegrate into the soup.
• Not Draining the Sausage Grease: If your sausage is particularly fatty, be sure to drain some of the grease before adding the other ingredients to avoid an overly greasy soup.
• Skipping the Greens: Greens like spinach or kale not only add nutrients but also provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sausage. Don’t skip them!

Serving and Presentation Tips

A well-presented bowl of sausage and sweet potato soup can be as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Consider these tips to elevate your presentation:

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle with Cream: If you want to make the soup look extra indulgent, drizzle a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk on top just before serving.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of toasted crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

How to Serve Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main course. Serve it hot, straight from the pot, with your choice of sides. Crusty bread, a light side salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments. The soup also pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon.

Presentation Ideas for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

1. Rustic Bowls: Serve the soup in rustic, deep bowls for a cozy, home-cooked feel.
2. Garnish with Color: Use bright green herbs or a dollop of cream to add contrast to the earthy tones of the sausage and sweet potatoes.
3. Family-Style Pot: If you're serving a crowd, place a large pot of soup in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves.

Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Batch Cooking: This soup is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Add Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even blend a portion of the soup before serving.
• Play with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika to give the soup a new twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients (except greens) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the greens in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Q: Can I freeze sausage and sweet potato soup?
A: Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
A: Definitely! Italian sausage, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage can be used, depending on your flavor preference.

Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes, or use a spicy variety of sausage for a nice kick.

Conclusion

Sausage and sweet potato soup is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. It’s easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and perfect for both meal prepping or serving fresh on a busy weeknight. The balance of sweet potatoes and savory sausage creates a delicious, well-rounded soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of nourishing, homemade goodness!

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