When you’re looking for a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent, few dishes can match the satisfying combination of creamy cheese, hearty potatoes, and a spicy kick of sausage. This Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage is the perfect recipe for those moments when you want comfort food with a twist.
Imagine digging into a bowl filled with creamy, cheesy soup that’s layered with the smokiness of beer, the richness of potatoes, and the heat of spicy turkey sausage. It’s a meal that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly nights, game day gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something irresistibly indulgent.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can create it step by step in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage
This soup is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. Each spoonful is bursting with bold flavors that balance beautifully: the creamy sharpness of cheddar, the heartiness of potatoes, the smoky complexity of beer, and the spice of turkey sausage.
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Rich and Hearty: Packed with potatoes, cheese, and sausage, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
- Bold Flavor: The beer adds depth to the broth, while the cheddar and cream create a luscious texture.
- Customizable Heat: You can adjust the spice level by swapping in your preferred sausage or even adding a dash of hot sauce.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients for Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible soup:
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Spicy turkey sausage | 19.5 oz | Adds protein and a spicy kick |
Butter | 6 tablespoons | For sautéing the vegetables |
White onion, diced | 1 | Adds sweetness and depth |
Carrots, chopped | 1 cup | Adds color and natural sweetness |
Celery, chopped | 1 cup | Provides a fresh crunch |
Garlic, minced | 5 cloves | Enhances the savory flavor |
Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons | Adds a warm, herby note |
Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | For an earthy aroma |
Flour | 5 tablespoons | Helps thicken the soup |
Chicken broth | 3 (14.5 oz) cans | Forms the flavorful soup base |
Beer | 12 oz can | Choose your favorite for a smoky depth |
Russet potatoes, diced | 2 lbs | Adds a hearty, creamy texture |
Heavy cream | 1 cup | Makes the soup rich and velvety |
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 8 oz | The star ingredient for cheesiness |
White balsamic vinegar | 1 teaspoon | Adds brightness to balance the flavors |
Kosher salt | To taste | For seasoning the soup |
Fresh cracked black pepper | To taste | Adds spice and depth |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spicy Turkey Sausage
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the spicy turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and thyme, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the soup later.
4. Add the Liquids and Potatoes
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and the beer, stirring as you go to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced russet potatoes to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Finish the Soup
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Allow the cheese to melt completely into the soup, creating a creamy, luscious texture.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
- Add white balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or fresh herbs, like parsley or chives.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or pretzels for dipping.
Why This Soup Stands Out
1. Layers of Bold Flavor
The combination of beer, sharp cheddar, and spicy sausage creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and complex.
2. Creamy Yet Hearty
The heavy cream and shredded cheese add richness, while the potatoes and sausage make the soup filling enough to serve as a meal.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a cozy weeknight recipe, this soup is versatile and sure to impress.
4. Customizable Ingredients
You can easily tailor the recipe by using a different type of sausage, experimenting with cheeses, or adding more vegetables like leeks or bell peppers.
Tips for the Best Beer Cheese Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Beer: A medium-bodied beer like a pale ale or lager works best. Avoid overly bitter beers like IPAs.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy. Shred your own cheese for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer the soup just until the potatoes are tender to maintain their texture.
- Add Heat: If you love spice, stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Make It Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
FAQs About Beer Cheese Potato Soup
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can substitute the spicy turkey sausage with pork sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian alternative.
2. What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for variety.
3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup. Ensure your beer and sausage are also gluten-free.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly after freezing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. What sides go well with this soup?
Crusty bread, soft pretzels, or a simple green salad make excellent pairings for this hearty soup.
Why This Recipe Will Become a Staple in Your Kitchen
This Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage hits all the right notes: it’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a get-together, or just craving something comforting, this soup delivers every time.
It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for leftovers—what’s not to love? Once you make this soup, it’s sure to become a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Flavor Awaits
Ready to elevate your soup game? This Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage is the ultimate comfort food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to please.
Gather your ingredients, pour yourself a beer (save some for the soup!), and get cooking. One spoonful, and you’ll see why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen repertoire.
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Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, this Beer Cheese Potato Soup with Spicy Sausage is the ultimate comfort food. With tender potatoes, sharp cheddar, smoky beer, and spicy turkey sausage, every bite is a perfect blend of indulgence and heartiness. This soup is great for cozy dinners, game days, or whenever you’re craving a meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 19.5 oz spicy turkey sausage
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 white onion (diced)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 3 14.5 oz cans chicken broth
- 12 oz can of your favorite beer
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (diced into ½” pieces)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the spicy turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, heat the butter over medium heat until melted.
- Then, incorporate the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and thyme, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
- This will help thicken the soup.
- Add the Liquids and Potatoes:
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and the beer, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Finish the Soup:
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the pot.
- Season with white balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Ladle the beer cheese potato soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
- Choosing the Beer: A medium-bodied beer like a pale ale or lager works best for this recipe. Avoid overly bitter beers like IPAs.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture—pre-shredded cheese may cause graininess.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing a milder sausage or adding cayenne pepper for extra kick.
- Storing Leftovers: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food