Name: Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 ring (13.5 ounces) andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds; 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup); ½ cup diced celery (about 1 rib); ½ red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cups (960 g) chicken broth; 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream; 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded; parsley, chopped for garnish

Hey there, if you’re craving a bowl of comfort that sings with a bit of Southern flair, you’re going to love this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe. It’s that perfect cozy meal with just the right amount of spice, creamy potatoes, and smoky sausage that warms you up from the inside out. Trust me, this soup hits the spot whether it’s a chilly weeknight or when you want to impress friends with something homemade and hearty.

What I adore most about this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe is how easy it is to pull together, yet it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Plus, it’s flexible — add more spice if you’re feeling daring or keep it mild for the whole family. It’s probably one of my go-to soups when I want something filling, flavorful, and downright satisfying without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients combine to create a rich, balanced soup that has layers of flavor from the smoky sausage to the aromatic veggies and hearty potatoes. Picking fresh, quality produce and sausage really elevates the dish, so don’t skimp on that if you can help it.

Vegetable oil: Great for browning the sausage without overpowering the other flavors.
Andouille sausage: This smoked sausage gives the soup its distinctive Cajun kick; look for one that’s nicely spiced but not overly salty.
Large onion: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Celery: Brings a subtle crunch and earthiness into the soup base.
Red bell pepper: Adds a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
Garlic: Essential for that aromatic punch; fresh minced is always best here.
Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the soup its authentic Southern personality.
Kosher salt: For seasoning that’s clean and balanced.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and earthiness.
Paprika: Lends smoky warmth and a deep color.
Cayenne pepper: Use sparingly unless you want serious heat—it’s the secret for that Cajun zing.
Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture thickens the soup beautifully and gives it that hearty feel.
Heavy whipping cream: Brings luscious creaminess and rounds out the spices.
Mild cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for a mild, cheesy finish without overpowering the Cajun flavors.
Parsley: Freshly chopped for a bright, herbal garnish.

Variations

One of the fun things about this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe is how adaptable it is. I’ve played around with it to suit different tastes and dietary needs, and you can too—it’s all about making the soup your own cozy masterpiece.

Vegetarian version: Swap the andouille sausage for smoked smoked paprika and a hearty mushroom or spicy vegetarian sausage. I tried this once for a friend, and it was still rich and satisfying without the meat.
Extra spicy: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when you cook your veggies. I do this whenever I need a little kick after a cold day.
Lighter cream option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup, but keep in mind it won’t be as silky.
Smoked cheese: Swap cheddar for smoked Gouda or smoked mozzarella to amp up the depth of flavor.

How to Make Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Start by Browning the Sausage

Heat your vegetable oil over medium heat in a large pot, then add the sliced andouille sausage. Let the sausage sizzle and brown on both sides for about 5 minutes. This step is key because you want those browned bits — they add amazing flavor. Once browned, transfer the sausage onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then keep that delicious fat in the pot for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the sausage fat left in the pot, toss in the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and stir for 1 more minute. Keep an eye so the garlic doesn’t burn—that can get bitter fast!

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle in your Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the veggies in the spice blend. This is where the soup starts to develop those signature flavors, so don’t rush it — give the spices a minute to toast slightly before adding your liquids.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth, Then Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and toss in your peeled, cubed russet potatoes. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This simmering time lets the potatoes soak up the flavors and start to break down a bit, thickening the soup naturally.

Step 5: Creamy Finish and Cheese

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy whipping cream and shredded mild cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy and luscious. If you prefer a chunkier soup, stop here. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to pulse it until you reach your desired consistency—just be careful not to overblend!

Step 6: Add Back the Sausage and Garnish

Return the browned sausage slices to the pot and warm through for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper makes all the difference. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving for that fresh pop of color.

How to Serve Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe

Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I always top my bowls with fresh chopped parsley for a bit of brightness, and sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese if I’m feeling indulgent. If you like a little heat, a few dashes of hot sauce make a perfect finish. It’s those little touches that take this soup from homey to special.

Side Dishes

This Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or buttery cornbread to soak up every last bit. I also love serving it alongside a simple green salad for a lighter balance. When I want to make a feast, a side of roasted vegetables complements the deep flavors of the soup nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the soup in individual ramekins or hollowed-out mini bread bowls — it’s a fun way to impress guests and makes the meal feel festive. You can also garnish with crispy bacon bits or thinly sliced chives for an elegant look. It’s all about making your guests smile with both taste and presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. When I’ve had leftovers, I find the flavors actually meld better overnight, making it taste even richer the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but I prefer to leave out the heavy cream before freezing and add it when reheating to keep the texture creamy and fresh. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months — perfect for those busy nights when you want a quick, hearty meal.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If you froze the soup without cream, add it now along with any additional seasoning if needed. Avoid microwaving directly as it can sometimes separate the cream and cheese.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe?

Absolutely! While andouille sausage brings authentic smoky Cajun flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa, chorizo, or even Italian sausage depending on what you like or have on hand. Just keep in mind how each sausage’s seasoning will influence the overall taste.
Is this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and sausage. Always double-check your labels if gluten is a concern.
Can I make this soup spicy or mild?

Definitely! You control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning. If you want it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne. For more heat, add extra or serve with hot sauce on the side.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup feels too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. This naturally thickens it without adding extra ingredients.
Can I prepare this Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe in a slow cooker?

You can! Brown the sausage and sauté veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker except cream and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream and cheese at the end before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe is one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it’s simple, soulful, and endlessly comforting. Every time I make it, I remember those cozy family dinners where everyone asked for seconds. I hope you enjoy it just as much and maybe even make it a new staple in your kitchen. So grab your pot, and let’s get cooking—you’re going to love the warmth and flavor that this soup brings to your table!