🥔 Cheesy Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage & Idaho Potato Soup – Creamy Goodness
Indulge in a velvety bowl of cheesy smoked sausage and Idaho potato soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe combines smoky sausage, diced potatoes, melted cheddar, and a hint of garlic for a luxurious, thick soup that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly mornings or a hearty lunch, the slow cooker melds flavors for a silky texture without constant stirring.
Imagine coming home to a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, where the aroma of smoked sausage and melted cheese fills the air, teasing your taste buds and tempting you to take a sip. This slow cooker recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
The best part? It's incredibly easy to make. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick lunch solution or a parent seeking a comforting meal for the family, this cheesy smoked sausage and Idaho potato soup is the perfect answer.
So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, the combination of smoked sausage and Idaho potatoes creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile that's both comforting and decadent. The addition of cheddar cheese adds a creamy, velvety texture that's simply irresistible. And let's not forget the garlic – a hint of its pungency elevates the entire dish, tying all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 3-4 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or bacon bits for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds. Peel and dice the Idaho potatoes.
- Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker Place the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced smoked sausage, and diced potatoes into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Cook on Low Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or bacon bits, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips and Variations
Customize with Toppings
Add some crunch to your soup by garnishing with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of crushed crackers.
Spice it Up
For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Colby, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it's too thin, simmer for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy slow cooker smoked sausage and Idaho potato soup is a game-changer for any meal. Whether you're looking for a comforting breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a hearty dinner, this recipe delivers. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich, creamy goodness for yourself!
