There is nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm bowl of hearty soup, and this Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is a shining star in that category. Bursting with bold flavors from Italian turkey sausage and melted sharp Cheddar, this soup combines tender baby potatoes and vibrant vegetables in a luxuriously creamy broth. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients that will endear itself to your soul and your taste buds. Whether you’re seeking a cozy family dinner or an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser, this recipe promises a scrumptious escape in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a black pot filled with small, diced vegetables being cooked. The first layer consists of finely chopped orange carrots and green celery, mixed with bits of white onion scattered throughout. There are small pieces of browned garlic or other seasoning giving specks of brown and golden color. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pot, stirring the vegetables. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic each ingredient brings. From aromatic vegetables to sharp cheese and savory sausage, every component plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color that make this soup unforgettable.

1 pound Italian turkey sausage (mild or hot): The star protein, packed with Italian herbs for that authentic flavor punch.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Adds delicious creaminess and helps cook the veggies to tender perfection.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances richness and ensures the sausage gets nicely browned.
2-1/4 cups mirepoix (diced carrots, celery, and yellow onion): These veggies are the soup’s flavor foundation, imparting sweetness and depth.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: A small addition that contributes big flavor and aromatic warmth.
4 cups chopped baby gold potatoes: No peeling needed—potatoes give the soup body and comfort.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: A gentle herb note that brightens the soup.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a savory, slightly sweet aroma reminiscent of Italian cooking.
4 cups chicken stock or broth: The liquid base that ties all flavors together harmoniously.
6 tablespoons flour: Essential for thickening the creamy broth to the perfect consistency.
3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole): Provides creaminess without overpowering the soup.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the soup’s silkiness and indulgence.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth to each bite.
2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese: For that irresistible cheesy melt and tangy finish.
1/4 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that brightens the broth.
Hearty buttered bread (optional): The perfect companion to soak up every last drop of this delicious soup.

How to Make Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat, then add your Italian turkey sausage and let it sear for about a minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks until it reaches a gorgeous deep brown color. This browning develops intense, savory flavor to set the tone for the entire soup. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving a tablespoon of grease in the pot. If there’s not enough fat left, add a tablespoon of olive oil to continue cooking the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, melt a tablespoon of butter in the same pot and toss in the diced mirepoix — that’s your carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these for about 5 to 7 minutes until they become tender and slightly fragrant. Adding garlic for the last 30 seconds releases its wonderful aroma without burning it. This step is vital as it layers the base flavors of your soup.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes and Herbs

Now stir in the chopped baby potatoes followed by the dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot, allowing the potatoes to soften for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking melds the herby notes and lets the potatoes soak up that savory broth.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Base

While the potatoes simmer, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a separate medium pot over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir continuously for about a minute to cook out the raw flavor. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, keeping the mixture moving to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until it thickens and gently boils, then stir in the heavy cream and remove from the heat. This creamy base will give your soup that luxurious texture we all crave.

Step 5: Combine and Melt the Cheese

Once the potatoes are tender, add the milk and cream mixture to the vegetable pot. Turn off the heat and slowly stir in the shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing it to melt seamlessly into the broth. The soup becomes richly cheesy and velvety at this point. Finish with the sour cream for a slight tang and add the browned sausage back into the pot. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy soup in a simple white bowl filled with three main layers: a smooth, light beige broth, scattered chunks of soft yellow potatoes, and small pieces of browned crumbled sausage along with tiny bright orange carrot bits, green herbs, and seasoning specks. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged in the soup. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a sprig of green parsley on the left side and a small orange pumpkin slightly visible on the right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh pop of color and herbal brightness. A little extra shredded Cheddar melted on the surface or a dollop of sour cream can also make a big difference in presentation and flavor. Crispy croutons or bacon bits are fun options, too, if you’re feeling adventurous!

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with hearty buttered bread or crusty baguettes to soak up every creamy drop. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup well and adds a refreshing balance. For a more substantial meal, roasted vegetables or garlic knots make wonderful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, ladle the soup into rustic bread bowls for an edible serving dish. You can also serve it in individual mugs or mini cocottes for a cozy, personal-sized meal perfect for entertaining. Drizzling a little infused olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add flair and extra layers of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe tastes just as good the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and safety.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the dairy components might slightly separate after thawing. Use airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to store. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, do so over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and to help the cheese integrate back into the broth smoothly. Adding a splash of milk or broth during reheating can help restore the creamy texture if it becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use spicy Italian turkey sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using hot Italian turkey sausage will give the soup a nice kick of heat, which can be balanced with the creamy cheese and sour cream. Feel free to tailor the spice level to your liking.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No need to peel baby gold potatoes since their skins are thin and tender. Leaving the skins on adds texture, color, and nutrients to the soup.

Can I substitute the turkey sausage with another type of meat?

You certainly can swap turkey sausage with pork sausage or even chicken sausage. Just ensure it’s seasoned well with Italian herbs to keep the authentic flavor profile of the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Traditional flour is used to thicken the soup, so it is not gluten-free as is. However, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to accommodate dietary needs.

What cheese works best if I don’t have extra-sharp Cheddar?

Sharp or aged Cheddar is ideal for its strong flavor, but you can also use a blend of mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for tanginess if you want a different cheesy twist.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Italian Turkey Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe is a true hug in a bowl that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal. It’s heartwarming, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for any occasion where comfort food is called for. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again for its rich flavors and cozy vibes.