Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal, sausage and sweet potato soup is the perfect choice. Packed with savory sausage, sweet potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, this soup delivers a satisfying combination of flavors that will warm you up any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Ready to make a hearty bowl of comfort? Keep reading for the full recipe, tips, and variations to make this dish your own!

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What is Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup?

Sausage and sweet potato soup is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines the richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. The soup is often complemented with vegetables like onions, garlic, and leafy greens, and it’s seasoned with herbs and spices like thyme, paprika, and black pepper. This recipe is perfect for cold days or whenever you want something comforting yet nourishing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

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Ingredients List for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious sausage and sweet potato soup:

• 1 lb (450g) sausage (Italian, spicy, or mild – your choice)
• 3 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• 2 cups kale or spinach (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier version)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about sausage and sweet potato soup is how customizable it is. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

1. Sausage: You can use Italian sausage (hot or mild), turkey sausage, or chicken sausage. For a lighter option, use leaner sausages or even ground turkey. To make it vegetarian, swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or use hearty mushrooms.
2. Sweet Potatoes: While sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness, you can replace them with regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even carrots for a different flavor profile.
3. Broth: Chicken broth is most commonly used, but vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian option. Bone broth can be used for added nutrition and flavor depth.
4. Greens: Kale and spinach are popular additions, but you can also use Swiss chard or collard greens if you prefer.
5. Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes are optional, but they add a tangy brightness to the soup. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier flavor.
6. Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like ground coriander, cayenne pepper, or curry powder for an exotic twist.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your sausage and sweet potato soup.

1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes. Chop the onion and garlic, and slice your sausage into bite-sized pieces if it's not ground.
2. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. If using links, slice them into pieces after browning. For ground sausage, break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices: Add the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together so the sweet potatoes are coated in the seasonings.
5. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Add Sausage and Greens: Once the sweet potatoes are soft, return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted.
7. Add Cream (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes before serving.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like more spice, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

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How to Cook Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize the steps for perfect sausage and sweet potato soup:

1. Prep Ingredients: Dice sweet potatoes, chop onions, and slice sausage.
2. Brown Sausage: Sauté sausage until browned, then set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices: Stir in sweet potatoes, thyme, paprika, cumin, and seasoning.
5. Simmer: Add broth and diced tomatoes, and simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Add Sausage and Greens: Stir in browned sausage and leafy greens.
7. Optional Cream: For added richness, stir in heavy cream.
8. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning, then ladle into bowls.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when making sausage and sweet potato soup:

1. Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes cook fairly quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them. Overcooked sweet potatoes can turn mushy and make the soup overly thick.
2. Not Browning the Sausage: Don’t skip the step of browning the sausage. This adds depth and flavor to the soup. Make sure to get a good sear on the sausage before setting it aside.
3. Adding Greens Too Early: Greens like kale and spinach wilt quickly. Add them towards the end of cooking to retain their vibrant color and texture.
4. Underseasoning: Sweet potatoes have a naturally mild flavor, so be generous with your seasonings to balance out the sweetness.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making a comforting bowl of sausage and sweet potato soup even more inviting. Here are some tips for serving:

• Garnish with Herbs: Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic toast is perfect for dipping into the soup’s rich broth.
• Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of good-quality olive oil on top of the soup can add a touch of luxury and depth of flavor.

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How to Serve Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Sausage and sweet potato soup is hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal. Here are some ways to serve it:

1. As a Main Dish: Serve a big bowl as a full meal, paired with bread or a side salad.
2. As a Starter: Offer smaller portions as an appetizer for a larger dinner or during the holidays.
3. For Meal Prep: This soup holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. It’s easy to reheat and stays flavorful for several days.

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Presentation Ideas for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Make your soup look as good as it tastes with these presentation ideas:

• Rustic Bowls: Use rustic, earthy bowls to serve the soup, which enhances the comforting and hearty nature of the dish.
• Top with Sausage Slices: Garnish the soup with a few extra sausage slices on top for added visual appeal and flavor.
• Colorful Garnishes: Add contrast with toppings like chopped red pepper, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.

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Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• For Extra Richness: Stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier soup without overpowering the natural flavors.
• Boost Flavor: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time for an easy lunch or dinner.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze sausage and sweet potato soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply brown the sausage first, then transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook

on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the greens and cream in the last 30 minutes.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Yes, pre-cooked sausage can be used. Just slice it up and add it in during the final 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.

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Conclusion

Sausage and sweet potato soup is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it a comforting yet healthy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the richness of the sausage, creating a bowl of warmth and flavor that’s hard to resist. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures with every spoonful!

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