As the leaves begin to crisp and the evenings grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a simmering pot of soup to evoke the comforts of autumn. This Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup is my go-to recipe when I want a dish that not only warms me up but also fills my kitchen with inviting scents. The combination of sweet potatoes and savory sausage creates a delightful balance in every spoonful, making it the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s adaptable for various dietary preferences—gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan if you swap in plant-based options. So, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this hearty soup checks all the boxes. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure autumn joy?
Why is this soup a fall favorite?
Rich, Comforting Flavors: Each spoonful is a warm embrace, blending the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory depth of Italian sausage.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer it with meat or want to go plant-based, there are plenty of easy substitutions to make this soup your own!
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that will impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Filled with vitamins from sweet potatoes and kale, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. For an extra side, consider pairing it with something like our Gouda Mashed Potato bombs!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for busy weeks, this soup stores well in the fridge or freezer. Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week or serve it at a gathering.
Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up this cozy dish!
For the Base
- Olive Oil – For sautéing; can substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
- Italian Sausage – Provides savory richness; try vegetarian sausage or beans for a meatless option.
- Onion – Adds aromatic depth; shallots can substitute for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh is best, but powdered garlic works in a pinch.
- Vegetable Broth – The soup’s base; swap with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
For the Soup
- Sage – An aromatic herb that complements sweet potatoes; fresh is preferable, but dried will do.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; can be omitted if desired.
- Sweet Potato – Key ingredient for sweetness and creaminess; choose firm, unblemished ones.
- Smoked Paprika – Provides warmth and a smoky flavor; regular paprika is a substitute but will lack that smoky taste.
- White Beans – Adds heartiness and protein; can swap with any canned beans.
- Coconut Milk – Delivers creaminess and subtle sweetness; heavy cream or nut-based creams are good alternatives.
- Kale – A nutritional boost; feel free to use spinach or Swiss chard as substitutes.
- Salt and Black Pepper – For seasoning; adjust based on your preference.
This hearty Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup recipe is packed with flavors and easily tailored to fit your dietary needs!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large stockpot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once heated, prepare to add the sausage, ensuring the oil is hot enough for a nice sear that will enhance the flavor base of your Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add the ground Italian sausage to the pot and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, keeping the pot ready for your vegetables.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until aromatic. This step lays an excellent flavor foundation for your hearty soup.
Step 4: Combine the Vegetables and Spices
Pour in the vegetable broth, and then add the diced carrots, sweet potatoes, sage, smoked paprika, white beans, and half of the cooked sausage. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the smoky scents to fill your kitchen, as they come together for the delicious Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This slow cooking will allow the sweet potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors, resulting in a creamy, comforting broth that permeates the air.
Step 6: Add Coconut Milk and Kale
After 15 minutes, stir in the coconut milk and chopped kale. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the kale wilts but remains vibrant. This step adds creaminess and a nutritional boost, completing your Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup with delightful textures and flavors.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Remove and discard any sage leaves if using whole, then taste the soup for seasoning. Adjust the flavor with salt and black pepper, depending on your preference. This final touch will ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned and ready to serve, enhancing all the comforting flavors.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with the remaining sausage and optional garnishes like pepitas or fried sage. Enjoy your warm, cozy bowls of Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup, perfect for sharing with family or relishing on a chilly evening!
What to Serve with Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup
Are you ready to create the perfect meal to accompany that cozy bowl of soup?
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Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf for dipping! It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy broth and balancing the textures.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch, enhancing the richness of the soup.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy, caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the soup, creating a rounded, satisfying plate.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: As if crusty bread wasn’t enough, garlic butter and melty cheese elevate every bite while complementing the soup’s flavors.
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Savory Cornbread: Its slightly sweet taste and fluffy texture go hand-in-hand with the creamy soup, providing a delightful contrast.
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Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, this comforting treat brings a sweet finish to your meal while celebrating those autumn flavors in every bite.
Indulge in this delightful culinary experience that wraps warmth and joy into every moment!
Expert Tips for Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup
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Uniform Dicing: Ensure sweet potatoes are evenly diced for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain firm.
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Kale Magic: Add kale at the very end of cooking to keep it vibrant and nutrient-rich. Overcooking can cause it to lose its beautiful color and texture.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider caramelizing the sweet potatoes in the pot before adding the broth. This will enhance the natural sweetness.
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Slow Cooker Option: You can easily make this Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup in a slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic first, then combine everything (except for coconut milk and kale) and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
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Storage Tips: Make sure to store leftovers in airtight containers. This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months for a cozy meal anytime!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup
Fridge: Store your Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This way, you can easily reheat it on busy weeknights!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: To enjoy your soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual servings. This makes it easier to grab a quick meal whenever you’re in need of some cozy comfort!
Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup Variations
Feel free to jazz up your soup with these delightful twists and substitutions that will cater to your taste buds!
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Sausage Swap: Use smoked or spicy sausage for a bolder flavor. Alternatively, try plant-based sausage or even a medley of beans for a heart-healthy, meatless option. Each substitution creates a uniquely satisfying dish!
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Creamy Alternatives: Replace coconut milk with heavy cream or a nut-based cream like cashew cream for a luxurious texture. Your soup will retain its rich creaminess while offering a new flavor profile.
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Extra Heat: Bring the spice with red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming kick! This fiery addition pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. Each herb offers its own distinctive aroma, enriching the soup’s comforting essence.
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Root Veggie Boost: Add in other root vegetables such as parsnips or sweet rutabaga for extra flavor and texture. These ingredients can deepen the soup’s earthy tones while providing even more nutrition.
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Lean and Green: Substitute kale with fresh spinach or Swiss chard for a different leafy green, keeping the nutritional benefits while switching up the flavors just a bit.
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Flavor Explosion: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors. The acidity balances out the creamy richness perfectly!
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Thickening Agent: For an extra thick soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender. This creates a creamy base with chunky bits of sweet potato and sausage for that comforting texture!
With these variations, your Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup can be a delightful exploration of flavors! Try pairing it with a crusty loaf or a side of our Mini Loaded Potato skins for a delightful meal experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup is ideal for meal prep, wonderfully convenient for busy weeks! You can chop the sweet potatoes, onions, and carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, cook the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic beforehand, refrigerating them separately. When you’re ready to prepare the soup, simply combine the broth and your prepped ingredients in a pot as instructed, stirring in the remaining components just before serving to maintain that creamy texture. This makes for a quick assembly, giving you delicious, ready-to-eat comfort food in no time!
Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of sweet potatoes should I use?
For the best results, select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Look for ones without dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate spoilage. The perfect sweet potatoes will enhance the creaminess and flavor of your soup.
How long can I store Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store your soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. I often make a double batch to enjoy it throughout the week—just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I freeze this soup, and if so, how?
Yes, this Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup freezes beautifully! First, cool the soup completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What if my soup looks too thick after cooking?
If your soup appears thicker than desired, don’t worry! You can easily adjust it by adding a bit more vegetable broth or water. Start with half a cup and stir well, checking the consistency. This way, you’ll achieve your preferred creamy texture.
Is there a gluten-free version of this soup?
Absolutely! This Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup can be made gluten-free simply by using gluten-free sausage and ensuring that any broth you use is also gluten-free. The soup is already dairy-free due to the coconut milk, making it adaptable for various dietary needs.
Are there any ingredients I should avoid if I have allergies?
If you or your loved ones have allergies, be sure to check labels on your sausage and broth, as these can sometimes contain hidden allergens. For a nut allergy in particular, substitute the coconut milk with a safe non-dairy option you are comfortable with, like oat milk, to ensure everyone can enjoy this warm, comforting dish.
Creamy Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and slightly crispy.
- In the same pot, sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and then add the diced carrots, sweet potatoes, sage, smoked paprika, white beans, and half of the cooked sausage.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the coconut milk and chopped kale, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the kale wilts.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Serve the soup topped with the remaining sausage and optional garnishes.