Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings, this Potato and Sausage Chowder is your answer. Packed with tender potatoes, savory sausage, and a creamy base, this chowder will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It’s easy to prepare and makes an excellent meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavor)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 liter/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 100g/1/2 cup wild rice
• 3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half-and-half
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Sausage
   Heat olive oil in a soup pot. Remove the sausage from its casing, crumble it, and fry until golden and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside. If the sausage releases excess fat, leave about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
2. Cook the Vegetables
   In the same pot, add chopped onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Cook on low heat for about 10 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Make the Roux
   Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring to form a paste. Cook for a couple of minutes before returning the sausage to the pot.
4. Add the Stock and Simmer
   Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, stirring to combine with the roux. Add bay leaves and wild rice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook over low to medium heat for 30 minutes.
5. Add the Potatoes and Cream
   Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for another 15 minutes or until both the potatoes and wild rice are tender. Pour in the cream, season with salt to taste, and warm through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with Bread: Serve the chowder with warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or buttery dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Top It Off: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the flavors.
3. Side Options: Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables to add balance and freshness to your meal.
4. Make It Fun: Serve in bread bowls for a cozy, rustic presentation that’s perfect for special gatherings.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: This chowder freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding the cream, then stir it in when reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream to adjust the consistency if it has thickened. Microwave reheating is also an option; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly warmed.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the potatoes or wild rice when reheating, as they can become too soft. Always stir gently to maintain the chowder’s creamy texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this hearty Potato and Sausage Chowder fresh or as delicious leftovers!

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or chorizo to add a bold, zesty flavor. Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a fully vegetarian chowder.
3. Seafood Twist: Swap the sausage for cooked shrimp, scallops, or clams. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking for a seafood-inspired chowder.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese after adding the cream for a rich, cheesy flavor.
5. Bacon Infusion: Crisp up bacon pieces and use them instead of or alongside the sausage. Sprinkle some crispy bacon on top as a garnish.
6. Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for an earthy, aromatic touch. A sprinkle of fresh chives can also brighten the dish.
7. Healthy Twist: Use turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat content. Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
8. Corn Chowder Fusion: Add a cup of sweet corn kernels for a touch of natural sweetness and an extra layer of texture.
9. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to enhance the smoky undertones. A splash of liquid smoke can also work wonders.
10. Additional Veggies: Include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or leeks for added color and nutrition.

These variations let you tailor the chowder to your preferences or experiment with exciting new flavors, making each bowl of Potato and Sausage Chowder uniquely delicious!

FAQs

1. Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
   Yes, this chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or stock if it thickens too much.
2. Can I freeze Potato and Sausage Chowder?
   While the chowder can be frozen, the cream may separate when reheated. To avoid this, freeze the chowder without the cream and add it after reheating.
3. What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
   You can use any sausage you prefer, such as pork, chicken, or turkey sausage. Spicy or flavored sausages like Italian or chorizo can add unique twists.
4. Can I substitute the wild rice?
   Yes, you can use other grains like white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the grain you choose.
5. Is there a dairy-free option for this chowder?
   Absolutely! Substitute the cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or any dairy-free alternative. Ensure the stock used is also dairy-free.
6. How do I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
   To thicken, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes or create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stirring it into the chowder.
7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour to make the roux and ensure the sausages and stock are gluten-free.
8. What can I serve with this chowder?
   Serve it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
9. Can I cook this chowder in a slow cooker?
   Yes, sauté the sausage and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
10. How long does Potato and Sausage Chowder last in the refrigerator?
    The chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

These FAQs provide helpful tips and solutions for common questions, ensuring you can make and enjoy Potato and Sausage Chowder with ease!

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is a versatile and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat, this chowder delivers on flavor and warmth every time. Try it today and savor the taste of comfort in every spoonful!

Print