Name: Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground Italian sausage; 2 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup cooked wild rice; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

When the weather starts to shift and I need something warm, filling, and a little indulgent, this Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is my go-to. It’s the kind of hearty meal that hugs you from the inside out. The smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and earthy wild rice come together in a rich, creamy broth that always hits the spot. One spoonful, and I’m instantly reminded of cozy evenings at home, the kind where the windows fog up and the house smells like something wonderful is simmering on the stove.

What I love most about this chowder is its ability to feed both body and soul. It’s not just a meal—it’s a moment of comfort. The flavors are deeply savory, and the textures are perfectly balanced with bits of sausage, chunks of vegetables, and creamy broth mingling together. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just myself, this chowder always brings warmth and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder

This chowder is the epitome of a cold-weather comfort meal. It’s:

Thick and creamy without being heavy
Packed with flavor from Italian sausage, herbs, and aromatics
Filled with nutritious ingredients like carrots, celery, and potatoes
Easy to prepare in one pot
A great make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

For this chowder, I always reach for ground Italian sausage—either mild or spicy, depending on my mood. The sausage adds an incredible depth of flavor and a slight kick that pairs beautifully with the mellow potatoes and rich broth. You can also use crumbled breakfast sausage or even smoked sausage slices for a slightly different flavor profile. Just make sure it’s a well-seasoned sausage so the chowder stays flavorful.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is flexible enough to suit various tastes and dietary needs:

Vegetarian version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of the heavy cream.
Low-carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets to cut down on carbs without sacrificing texture.
No wild rice? Try brown rice or orzo for a different texture, or leave it out altogether for a simpler chowder.
Herbs: If you don’t have fresh thyme or parsley, dried versions will work in a pinch.

Ingredients for this Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder

Ground Italian Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor and a hearty texture that forms the base of the chowder.
Potatoes: Yukon Golds or Russets are perfect—creamy and starchy enough to slightly thicken the soup as they cook.
Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery: Offers subtle bitterness and crunch, essential for classic soup depth.
Onion: A foundational aromatic that builds flavor right from the start.
Garlic: Adds a bold punch that enhances all the other ingredients.
Wild Rice: Earthy and chewy, this grain gives the chowder a rustic texture and boosts its heartiness.
Chicken Broth: Forms the liquid base, full of savory depth.
Heavy Cream: Brings luscious creaminess and richness to the chowder.
Butter: Used to sauté vegetables and adds a silky mouthfeel.
Flour: Helps thicken the chowder, turning it luxuriously creamy.
Fresh Thyme: Adds a slightly minty, earthy freshness.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A bright garnish for a final touch of freshness.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 7–9 minutes. Use a spoon to break it into crumbles. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add butter to the pot with the reserved fat. Once melted, stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Stir in the Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat evenly. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This forms the roux that will thicken the chowder.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Potatoes

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the diced potatoes and thyme, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Wild Rice and Cook Further

Stir in the cooked wild rice and the browned sausage. Let the chowder simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes so all the flavors meld.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, but do not let it boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley and extra cracked pepper if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

How Long to Prepare the Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder

This chowder takes a bit of time, but every minute is worth it for the flavor you’ll get.

Preparation Time: It takes about 15–20 minutes to chop the vegetables, brown the sausage, and prep all your ingredients. If you’re using pre-cooked wild rice or chopping ahead, you’ll cut this time down significantly.

Cooking Time: The simmering process—from sautéing the aromatics to cooking the potatoes and finishing with cream—takes about 35–40 minutes total. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the flavors fully developed before serving.

Tips for Perfect Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder

Use high-quality sausage—it makes a huge difference in taste.
Don’t skip the flour step; it ensures the chowder thickens properly.
Chop potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Simmer gently once the cream is added to avoid curdling.
For best flavor, let the chowder sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the potatoes: They’ll break down and make the chowder grainy.
Boiling after adding cream: This can cause separation and a gritty texture.
Using underseasoned broth: The base flavor is key—use a good-quality broth or add bouillon if needed.
Skipping the roux step: Without it, the chowder won’t thicken.
Crowding the pot: Give everything space to simmer evenly.

What to Serve With Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder?

1. Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for soaking up every bit of the creamy broth.

2. Simple Green Salad

A refreshing contrast with vinaigrette balances the richness.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add a nutty, crispy element to the meal.

4. Cheddar Biscuits

Fluffy, cheesy, and practically made for chowder.

5. Apple Slices with Sharp Cheddar

A sweet-savory pairing that cleanses the palate.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezer: This chowder can be frozen, but keep in mind that the cream and potatoes may slightly change texture when thawed. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring often.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~480
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 880mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the chowder will be less creamy. Whole milk is the best alternative.

Do I have to use wild rice?

No. You can skip it or replace it with orzo, brown rice, or even quinoa.

Is this gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour to make the roux.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Stir in shredded sharp cheddar at the end for extra richness.

Conclusion

Comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder is everything you crave on a cold day—rich, filling, flavorful, and loaded with texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot meal is as satisfying as it is simple. With its balance of hearty sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy, herb-infused broth, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again.