If you’re looking for a warm, hearty, and flavorful soup, this Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is exactly what you need. Packed with nutritious ingredients and the savory depth of Italian sausage, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or even meal prep for the week. Read on to discover how to make this delicious dish and explore variations, tips, and tricks to perfect it every time.
What is Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup?
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is a hearty and nourishing soup made with Italian sausage, sweet potatoes, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This dish balances the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory richness of sausage, offering a satisfying meal that’s not only filling but also loaded with vitamins, protein, and fiber. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients List for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
Before diving into the instructions, here’s a complete list of ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
- 16 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cups water
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Each of these ingredients serves a purpose in creating a balanced flavor profile for the soup. The sausage brings richness, while the sweet potatoes add natural sweetness that complements the savory broth. Fresh vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and onions provide texture and additional nutrition.
Substitutions and Variations for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
If you're looking to personalize your Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup or accommodate dietary preferences, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make:
- Vegetarian version: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add an extra vegetable, like carrots or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy twist: Opt for spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for extra heat.
- Add greens: For a nutritional boost, toss in a handful of kale or spinach towards the end of cooking.
- Creamy soup: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream after the soup has finished cooking.
- Paleo-friendly: This soup is naturally gluten-free and can be made paleo by ensuring you use paleo-approved sausage and broth.
Feel free to get creative and make this soup your own by swapping out or adding ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is a breeze, especially with this easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, these instructions will walk you through each stage of the cooking process.

1. Prepare the ingredients
Before starting, ensure you have all your ingredients ready. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, chop the onion, celery, and red bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
2. Brown the sausage
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage (remove the casing if using links) and cook until browned. Break the sausage apart with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the vegetables
Using the same pot with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
4. Add the liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
5. Add the sweet potatoes
Once the broth is simmering, add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Return the browned sausage to the pot, ensuring everything is mixed well.
6. Simmer the soup
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve and enjoy
Once the soup has finished cooking, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, if desired.
How to Cook Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this soup doesn’t require any special techniques, but here’s a breakdown of key steps to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Browning the sausage: This step is crucial for adding depth to the soup. Browning creates a delicious fond (the caramelized bits at the bottom of the pot) that enriches the broth.
- Sautéing the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables before adding the liquids helps develop their flavor and makes the soup more aromatic.
- Simmering: Simmering the soup gently allows the sweet potatoes to soften while the flavors meld together. Be sure not to boil too vigorously, as that can make the sausage tough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes cook relatively quickly, and overcooking them can lead to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on them as they simmer.
- Not browning the sausage: Skipping this step can result in less flavorful sausage and broth. Take your time to thoroughly brown the sausage for the best taste.
- Forgetting to taste and season: Always taste your soup before serving to ensure it's seasoned properly. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup, presentation is key to making it even more appetizing.
How to Serve Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
- Crusty bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal.
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or even a few chili flakes can add a pop of color and flavor to each bowl.
- Cheese: If you enjoy a bit of decadence, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup just before serving.
Presentation Ideas for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
- Garnish with herbs: A sprig of parsley or a scattering of chopped green onions makes the soup look fresh and inviting.
- Serve in a bread bowl: For a fun and hearty presentation, hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside.
- Add a swirl of cream: For a touch of elegance, drizzle a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk on top of the soup before serving.
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Batch cooking: This soup stores well, so feel free to double the recipe and freeze individual portions for later use.
- Blending the soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. Just be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some texture from the sausage and veggies.
- Meal prep: This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Store the soup in individual containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is recommended for its seasoning, you can substitute it with turkey sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage.
How can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to add carrots, spinach, or kale for more variety. Adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the added veggies.
Conclusion
This Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect balance of hearty and healthy. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a comforting dish that’s ideal for cold nights or busy weeks. Whether you’re making it for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this satisfying soup!
PrintSausage And Sweet Potato Soup Recipe
A savory Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup recipe packed with flavor. Made with Italian sausage, sweet potatoes, and veggies, this easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy meal. Ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner, this dish delivers a balance of rich, hearty ingredients with healthy sweet potatoes and protein-rich sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled & diced
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water.
- Add the red bell pepper, celery, and sweet potatoes to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner version.
- For extra flavor, add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1000mg
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