If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s both hearty and nutritious, Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect choice. This flavorful soup combines the richness of savory sausage with the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, all in a warming broth filled with spices and vegetables. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with satisfying flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special gathering. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this soup is bound to become a family favorite!
What Is Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup?
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is a hearty, wholesome dish that blends savory sausage with sweet, earthy sweet potatoes in a flavorful broth. The soup typically includes a mix of vegetables like onions, garlic, and kale or spinach, and it’s seasoned with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for added depth. The combination of rich sausage and sweet potatoes creates a delicious balance of flavors, making this a perfect go-to recipe for fall and winter, or anytime you’re craving something warm and comforting.
Ingredients List for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb sausage (Italian, spicy, or mild sausage, depending on your preference)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version with plant-based sausage)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (for added greens)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for added richness)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat, optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan (optional for a cheesy topping)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile, so you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Sausage options: Use Italian sausage (spicy or mild) or breakfast sausage. For a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage. For a plant-based version, use your favorite vegan sausage.
- Vegetarian version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative, or leave it out altogether and bulk up the soup with beans like cannellini or chickpeas.
- Spices and herbs: Add depth with smoked paprika, cumin, or even curry powder for a twist. You can also change the herbs by using sage or basil.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This soup can handle lots of extra veggies without overwhelming the dish.
- Broth options: If you want a creamier soup, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving any drippings behind for extra flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Seasonings
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to slightly soften and absorb the flavors of the seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
- Add the bay leaf and return the cooked sausage to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)
- If using kale or spinach, stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the greens to wilt but stay vibrant.
Step 6: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Cook Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
This Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is incredibly easy to make in just one pot. First, brown the sausage for that savory, meaty base, then sauté the vegetables to develop their natural sweetness. The sweet potatoes add a rich, earthy flavor that balances beautifully with the sausage, while herbs and spices infuse the broth with warmth and complexity. Adding greens like kale or spinach at the end brings a pop of color and nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also wholesome and filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the sweet potatoes: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes while simmering. Overcooked sweet potatoes can become mushy and break down too much, so aim for them to be tender but still hold their shape.
- Not browning the sausage: Browning the sausage is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors. Be sure to take your time with this step and don’t rush it.
- Undercooking the vegetables: Give the carrots, celery, and onions enough time to soften before adding the broth. This ensures they fully release their flavors into the soup.
- Forgetting to season: Taste the soup as you go, especially before serving. Depending on your broth and sausage, you may need to add more salt or spices to balance the flavors.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making your Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup look just as good as it tastes. Here are a few tips:
- Serve with crusty bread: A warm slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up all that flavorful broth.
- Top with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or even fresh thyme brightens the dish and adds a burst of color.
- Add grated cheese: Parmesan or pecorino cheese sprinkled on top of the soup can enhance the savory flavors.
- Serve family-style: Serve the soup in a large pot in the center of the table so everyone can help themselves, adding to the cozy, rustic feel of the meal.
How to Serve Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve alongside warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. This soup is hearty enough to stand alone as a meal, but you can pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for an even more filling dinner.
Presentation Ideas for Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup
While this soup is simple and rustic, you can still make it look beautiful with just a few presentation touches:
- Use colorful bowls: Serve the soup in bright or patterned bowls to make the rich orange of the sweet potatoes and the green of the kale or spinach pop.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil adds a nice contrast of color and flavor.
- Serve with a swirl of cream: Drizzle a bit of cream or coconut milk on top of each bowl in a swirl pattern for a touch of elegance and extra creaminess.
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to make sure your Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Prep in advance: You can chop the vegetables and sausage ahead of time to make cooking even quicker when you're ready to make the soup.
- Make it a meal prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
- Freeze for later: This soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you like—Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage. For a spicier soup, try using hot Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes in a flavorful, aromatic broth. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special occasion. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with crusty bread, sprinkle it with fresh herbs, and enjoy the warmth of this delicious soup!
PrintSausage And Sweet Potato Soup Recipe
Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup is a flavorful, hearty dish made with savory sausage, tender sweet potatoes, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note, while optional greens like kale or spinach boost the nutrition. The soup is perfect for a warming, nutrient-dense meal that’s easy to make. Add diced tomatoes and red pepper flakes for extra richness and heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb sausage (Italian, spicy, or mild)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version with plant-based sausage)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh rosemary)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional for added greens)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for richness)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Broth and Sweet Potatoes: Stir in sweet potatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Optional Add-Ins: Add kale or spinach, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked sausage to the pot, stirring to combine. Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- You can use spicy sausage for an extra kick or mild sausage for a more subtle flavor.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 950mg






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