Potato And Sausage Chowder immediately evokes images of warmth, comfort, and a truly satisfying meal. This classic dish, with its humble origins as a hearty staple, has evolved into a beloved favorite across countless households, especially when the weather turns crisp. There’s something uniquely comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy chowder, brimming with tender potatoes and savory beef, that simply warms you from the inside out. I find immense joy in preparing dishes that offer both profound flavor and a sense of nourishment, and this Potato And Sausage Chowder certainly delivers on all fronts. It’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly evening, a substantial lunch, or a fuss-free dinner that pleases everyone at the table, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Its balanced flavors and wonderfully varied textures — from the melt-in-your-mouth potatoes to the perfectly seasoned beef — make it an irresistible choice for any occasion, ensuring that every spoonful is a journey of pure comfort and deliciousness. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience designed to bring warmth and happiness to your home.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder
- Incredibly Creamy & Satisfying: The velvety broth, thickened to perfection, provides an indulgent texture that makes every bite deeply comforting.
- Robust & Hearty Flavors: A harmonious blend of tender potatoes, savory beef, and aromatic vegetables creates a rich, complex taste profile that is both familiar and exciting.
- Effortless Preparation: Designed for simplicity, this recipe streamlines the cooking process, allowing you to create a gourmet-tasting meal with minimal fuss.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a comforting dish for guests, its universal appeal makes it a versatile choice.
- Fantastic Leftovers: This chowder often tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy weeks or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation
Embarking on the journey to create a truly comforting potato and beef sausage chowder begins not just with great ingredients, but with the right tools in your kitchen arsenal. Having the proper equipment at hand makes the cooking process smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately, helps you achieve the best possible results. Think of your kitchen tools as extensions of your culinary ambition; they empower you to execute each step with precision and ease. From the initial browning of the beef sausage to the final creamy simmer, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in bringing this hearty dish to life. Let’s make sure you’re well-equipped before we even think about chopping a single potato!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- A Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot (6-8 quart capacity): This is truly the star of the show for this recipe. A Dutch oven’s heavy construction ensures even heat distribution, which is vital for browning the beef sausage perfectly without scorching and for maintaining a gentle simmer as the potatoes cook. Its generous capacity is also essential for accommodating all the ingredients for a substantial batch of chowder, preventing any overflow or overcrowding. A good quality pot will become your best friend for countless one-pot meals and stews.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision cutting is key for consistent cooking. A sharp chef’s knife will make quick work of dicing potatoes, chopping onions, mincing garlic, and preparing all your other vegetables. A dull knife is not only inefficient but also more dangerous, so ensure yours is honed and ready for action.
- Large Cutting Board: You’ll be doing a fair amount of chopping, so a sturdy, spacious cutting board will provide a stable and safe surface. I always recommend one that has a non-slip grip or that you can place a damp towel underneath to prevent it from sliding around on your countertop.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in baking is paramount, but it’s also highly beneficial in savory cooking, especially when building a flavor base or thickening a chowder. Having both dry and liquid measuring cups, along with a full set of measuring spoons, will ensure you add just the right amount of broth, milk, flour, and seasonings.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Ideal for stirring, scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking, and breaking up the beef sausage as it browns. Wooden spoons are fantastic because they won’t scratch your Dutch oven’s enamel coating, and they don’t transfer heat as readily as metal.
- Whisk: Absolutely essential for creating a smooth roux and for incorporating the milk and cream into your chowder base without any lumps. A balloon whisk will make quick work of achieving a silky-smooth texture, which is a hallmark of any good chowder.
- Potato Masher (Optional, but recommended): While not strictly necessary, a potato masher can be a fantastic tool if you prefer a slightly thicker, creamier chowder with some of the potatoes broken down. It allows you to achieve that rustic, hearty texture without over-processing.
- Ladle: Once your chowder is ready, a sturdy ladle will be indispensable for serving generous portions into bowls.
- Bowls for Serving: Deep, comforting bowls are perfect for serving this hearty chowder, inviting you to cozy up and enjoy every spoonful.
Taking the time to gather these items before you begin will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on the delicious aromas and flavors unfolding in your kitchen. With these tools by your side, you’re well on your way to crafting a truly memorable potato and beef sausage chowder.
Ingredients
The heart and soul of any truly comforting dish lie in the quality and balance of its ingredients. For our Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder, we’re focusing on fresh, flavorful components that build layers of richness and a satisfying texture. Each item on this list has been carefully selected to contribute to that wholesome, hearty chowder experience we’re aiming for. I always advocate for sourcing the best ingredients you can find, as they truly make a difference in the final taste of your meal. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece.
For the Beef Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: For sautéing and browning. A good quality oil provides a neutral base and helps prevent sticking.
- 1 pound Ground Beef Sausage: I recommend a mild or medium Italian-style beef sausage, either in casings (which you’ll remove) or already ground. The seasoning in the sausage provides a fantastic foundational flavor that will permeate the entire chowder. Ensure it’s good quality beef for the best taste and texture.
- 1 large Yellow Onion: Diced. Onions are the cornerstone of so many savory dishes, providing sweetness and aromatic depth once softened.
- 2 stalks Celery: Diced. Celery adds a subtle, fresh, and slightly peppery note, contributing to the classic mirepoix base.
- 2 large Carrots: Peeled and diced. Carrots bring natural sweetness, vibrant color, and an earthy undertone.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Minced. Garlic is indispensable for adding that pungent, savory kick that elevates any dish.
For the Chowder Base
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux, which thickens the chowder and provides a rich, nutty flavor.
- 6 cups Chicken Broth (low sodium): The primary liquid for our chowder, providing savory depth. Using low sodium allows you to control the salt content precisely.
- 2 cups Whole Milk: Contributes to the chowder’s creamy texture and adds a gentle sweetness. Whole milk offers the richest flavor, but 2% can also work.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: The secret to an incredibly rich and luxurious chowder. Don’t skip this if you want that truly indulgent experience!
For the Potatoes and Vegetables
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: Peeled and diced into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch pieces. Russets will break down slightly, creating a thicker chowder, while Yukon Golds will hold their shape a bit better and offer a creamier texture. Either is fantastic for this recipe.
- 1 cup Frozen Corn (optional): Adds a delightful burst of sweetness and extra texture. If you’re a corn lover, I highly recommend adding it.
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: A classic herb for hearty, savory dishes, thyme adds an earthy, slightly minty note.
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: For a subtle hint of smoky depth and a beautiful reddish hue. It complements the beef sausage wonderfully.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you enjoy a very mild background warmth, these are perfect. Adjust to your heat preference.
- 2 Bay Leaves: Infuse the chowder with a subtle, aromatic complexity that deepens as it simmers. Remember to remove them before serving!
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the chowder. Always season in layers, tasting as you go.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives (for garnish): Chopped, for a fresh pop of color and herbaceousness just before serving.
Optional Garnishes
- Crispy fried onions: A wonderful textural contrast.
- Extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For a cheesy indulgence.
- Crumbled crispy cooked beef bacon: Adds another layer of savory, smoky flavor.
Gathering all these ingredients before you start cooking, a practice known as “mise en place,” will make the entire process much more enjoyable and efficient. You’ll feel like a seasoned chef, orchestrating a symphony of flavors in your own kitchen.
How to Make Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder
Crafting this comforting potato and beef sausage chowder is a truly rewarding experience. The process is designed to build layers of flavor from the very first step, ensuring a rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal. Take your time with each stage, savoring the aromas that will soon fill your kitchen. This isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating warmth and nourishment. Let’s get started on bringing this delicious chowder to life, step by careful step.
Step 1: Browning the Beef Sausage
Our journey begins with developing a deep, savory foundation for the chowder. Place your large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer gently, indicating it’s ready. Carefully add the ground beef sausage to the hot pot. Using your wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula, break up the sausage into small, uniform pieces. You want to ensure that every bit of sausage gets an opportunity to brown evenly. Stir frequently, allowing the sausage to cook through and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This browning process is absolutely critical, as it locks in the rich, meaty flavors that will become integral to the chowder. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and nicely browned. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beef sausage to a plate lined with paper towels, allowing any excess fat to drain. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pot; this flavorful fat will be the base for sautéing our aromatics and building our roux. If there’s significantly more, carefully spoon some out, but don’t discard all of it!
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
With the flavorful beef fat remaining in the pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced yellow onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. This classic trio, known as mirepoix, is the aromatic backbone of countless savory dishes. Stir frequently, allowing these vegetables to soften without browning too much. You want them to become translucent and tender, releasing their natural sweetness and savory notes. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. The gentle heat allows their flavors to mellow and meld beautifully. Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can impart a bitter taste to your chowder. The air in your kitchen should now be filled with wonderful, savory aromas – a sure sign that we’re on the right track!
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base with a Roux
Now, it’s time to build the rich, creamy base of our chowder. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and fragrant garlic in the pot. Stir continuously with your wooden spoon or spatula for about 2 minutes. This step is incredibly important; cooking the flour briefly helps to eliminate the raw flour taste and develops a light, nutty aroma, creating what we call a roux. This roux will be our primary thickening agent. After cooking the flour, gradually pour in the 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, whisking constantly as you add it. Whisking vigorously at this stage is key to preventing any lumps from forming, ensuring a silky-smooth chowder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to whisk occasionally, and you’ll notice it start to thicken. Once it begins to bubble gently, continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to fully incorporate and the broth to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Simmering the Potatoes and Infusing Flavors
With our thickened broth base established, it’s time to add the star of the show: the potatoes! Carefully add the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir them gently to ensure they are fully submerged in the broth. Now, let’s infuse our chowder with delightful herbal notes. Add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and the two bay leaves to the pot. Give everything a good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. The goal here is for the potatoes to become tender when pierced with a fork, but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes can disintegrate too much, affecting the texture of your chowder. Keep an eye on them; the exact cooking time might vary slightly depending on the size of your potato dice.
Step 5: Creating the Creamy Texture and Adding the Sausage
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the dairy and bring back our delicious beef sausage. Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and the 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything gently until well combined. The chowder will become noticeably richer and lighter in color. Return the browned beef sausage to the pot, scattering it evenly throughout the chowder. If you’re using optional frozen corn, now is the perfect time to add that in as well; it will cook quickly as the chowder heats through. Stir gently once more, and allow the chowder to heat through over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are warm and the flavors have a chance to fully meld. Do not let the chowder come to a rolling boil after adding the milk and cream, as this can cause the dairy to curdle. A gentle simmer is all you need for this final heating phase.
Step 6: Final Touches, Seasoning, and Resting
This is the moment to truly make the chowder your own. Carefully remove and discard the bay leaves from the pot – their job is done! Now, taste the chowder. This is arguably the most important step for any seasoned cook. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You’ll likely need a good amount of both to bring out all the complex flavors. Remember, it’s always easier to add more seasoning than to take it away, so go slowly and taste after each addition. If you desire a thicker chowder, you can gently mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with your wooden spoon, or use a potato masher for a few quick presses – this will release more starch and create a heartier consistency. Once seasoned to perfection, remove the pot from the heat and allow the chowder to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and settle, resulting in an even more harmonious and delicious bowl of chowder. Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Your Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder
Once your Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder has had a moment to rest and its flavors have deepened, it’s ready to grace your table. This chowder is a meal in itself, hearty and filling, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Think of complements that offer a delightful contrast in texture, a fresh counterpoint to its richness, or simply more avenues for soaking up every last delicious drop.
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Absolutely essential for soaking up every last drop of that creamy, flavorful broth. A warm, crusty baguette, a rustic artisan loaf, or even soft homemade dinner rolls are perfect.
- Cornbread: For a true Southern comfort food experience, serve slices of warm, buttery cornbread alongside your chowder. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture is a wonderful contrast.
- Side Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chowder. It’s a great way to add some freshness and balance to the meal.
- Garnishes Galore: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds vibrant color and a burst of herbaceousness. Crispy fried onions offer a delightful crunch, while a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese can add an extra layer of creaminess and tang. For an ultimate savory experience, a scattering of crispy beef bacon bits is always a welcome addition.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort food pairing, a classic grilled cheese sandwich dipped into the hot chowder is a nostalgic and deeply satisfying combination that adults and children alike will adore.
Serve the chowder piping hot in deep bowls, encouraging everyone to cozy up and enjoy this truly heartwarming meal. It’s perfect for a chilly evening, a casual family dinner, or whenever you need a bowlful of culinary embrace.
How to Perfect Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder
Achieving a truly outstanding potato and beef sausage chowder isn’t just about following the steps; it’s about understanding the nuances and applying a few chef-inspired tricks. This chowder is forgiving, but with a little extra care and attention to detail, you can transform it from simply good to absolutely unforgettable. My goal for you is to confidently create a chowder that everyone will rave about, and these tips are your secret weapons.
- Build Layers of Flavor: The secret to any truly delicious soup or stew is layering flavors. Start with properly browning your beef sausage for maximum savoriness, then patiently sauté your aromatics until they’re sweet and tender. Don’t rush these initial steps; they set the stage for the entire dish.
- Don’t Skimp on the Roux: The roux is not just a thickener; it’s a flavor enhancer. Cooking the flour for a couple of minutes until it’s light golden and smells slightly nutty makes a huge difference in the final taste, eliminating any raw flour flavor.
- Gradual Liquid Addition: When adding the broth to your roux, pour it in slowly while whisking constantly. This is the best way to ensure a smooth, lump-free base, which is crucial for a creamy chowder. Patience here pays off!
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are excellent for a heartier, thicker chowder because they break down a bit more, releasing starch. Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture and tend to hold their shape better. Experiment to see which you prefer, but avoid waxy potatoes like red new potatoes, as they won’t absorb the flavors as well or contribute to the chowder’s body.
- Season in Layers and Taste Often: Don’t wait until the very end to season. Add a pinch of salt when you sauté the aromatics, and then again after the broth is added. The final seasoning should happen after the milk and cream are incorporated. Always taste and adjust. Remember, different broths and sausages have varying sodium levels, so your palate is your best guide.
- Mind the Simmer with Dairy: Once you add the milk and heavy cream, keep the heat low and only allow for a gentle simmer. Boiling dairy vigorously can cause it to curdle, resulting in an unappealing texture.
- The Power of Resting: Just like a good steak, chowder benefits from a short rest off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more harmonious and satisfying bowl. Even 5-10 minutes makes a noticeable difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking the Beef Sausage: Not browning the beef sausage sufficiently means you miss out on a significant amount of rich, savory flavor. Ensure it’s deeply golden and cooked through before removing it from the pot.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can go from perfectly fragrant to burnt and bitter in seconds. Add it towards the end of the aromatic sautéing, and cook it for just about a minute, stirring constantly.
- Skipping the Flour Cooking Step: If you don’t cook the flour for a couple of minutes before adding liquid, your chowder might have a raw, pasty flour taste, which is definitely not what we’re aiming for.
- Over-Boiling After Adding Dairy: As mentioned, high heat after adding milk and cream can cause curdling. Keep the heat low and only warm it through gently.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Bland chowder is a common pitfall. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, especially when dealing with a large quantity of potatoes and broth. Taste, taste, taste!
- Overcrowding the Pot: If your pot is too small, the ingredients will steam rather than brown, and the chowder will struggle to come together properly. Always use a large enough Dutch oven or pot to allow ingredients to cook evenly.
By keeping these tips in mind and actively avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder that will earn you rave reviews and become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
One of the many wonderful things about Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder is how well it stores and reheats, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week. Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality and ensuring it remains safe to eat. Here’s how to handle your delicious leftovers:
- Refrigerator Storage:
Once the chowder has cooled down to room temperature (this usually takes about 1-2 hours), transfer it to an airtight container. It’s important not to leave it out on the counter for too long to prevent bacterial growth. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it might last a day or two longer, the quality and freshness are best within this timeframe. The chowder will thicken considerably in the fridge, so don’t be alarmed when you take it out; this is perfectly normal.
- Freezer Storage:
If you’ve made a large batch or want to save some for a later date, this chowder freezes surprisingly well. Allow the chowder to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat for easier storage and thawing. Leave a little headspace in containers as liquids expand when frozen. The chowder can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Be aware that the texture of the potatoes might change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
- Reheating Instructions (from Refrigerator):
For chowder stored in the refrigerator, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Transfer the desired portion to a saucepan or small pot over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per serving) to help thin it out and restore its creamy consistency, as it will have thickened overnight. Stir gently and frequently, allowing it to warm through slowly until simmering. Avoid high heat, which can cause the dairy to separate. Do not boil vigorously.
You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the chowder in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk or broth, and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Reheating Instructions (from Freezer):
If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator first. Once thawed, follow the stovetop reheating instructions above, adding a bit of milk or broth as needed to reach your desired consistency. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop over very low heat, stirring frequently and breaking up the frozen chowder as it melts. This method takes longer and requires more attention to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder long after it’s freshly made, extending the joy of this delightful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s natural to have questions when trying a new recipe, or even a familiar one with a few twists. I’ve gathered some of the most common questions about making this Comforting Potato And Sausage Chowder to help you achieve the best results and feel confident in the kitchen. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, don’t hesitate to experiment, or keep these tips in mind for future cooking endeavors!
Can I make this chowder vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on beef sausage, you can certainly adapt it. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef sausage entirely or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative (ensure it’s dairy-free if aiming for vegan). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, in addition to the plant-based sausage and vegetable broth, you would need to substitute the dairy. Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew cream or oat-based cooking cream) for the milk and heavy cream, and a plant-based butter for the roux. The flavors will be different, but still deliciously creamy and comforting.
What type of beef sausage works best for this chowder?
I highly recommend using a mild or medium Italian-style ground beef sausage. The inherent seasoning in Italian sausage (fennel, garlic, paprika) provides an incredible flavor base for the chowder without you having to add a ton of extra spices. If you can’t find Italian-style beef sausage, simply use regular ground beef and add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds (crushed), an extra pinch of garlic powder, and a bit more dried thyme to the pot when you brown the beef.
How can I make this chowder thicker or thinner?
If your chowder is too thin, you have a few options. You can gently mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with your spoon or a potato masher; their released starch will naturally thicken the chowder. Alternatively, you can make a slurry: whisk 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water or milk until smooth, then slowly whisk this into the simmering chowder and cook for a few more minutes until thickened. If your chowder is too thick, simply thin it out by stirring in additional warm chicken broth or milk, a quarter cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
Definitely! This chowder is quite versatile. Beyond the optional corn, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) can add extra color and a fresh crunch. A handful of fresh spinach or kale, stirred in at the very end until wilted, can boost the nutritional content. Just be mindful of cooking times for any additions; add heartier vegetables with the potatoes, and more tender ones towards the end.
Why did my chowder curdle after adding the dairy?
The most common reason for dairy curdling in soups and chowders is overheating, especially bringing it to a rapid boil after the milk and cream have been added. Dairy products contain proteins that can coagulate and separate when exposed to high, sustained heat. To prevent this, always add milk and cream after the main simmering is done, keep the heat on low, and only warm the chowder through gently. Avoid vigorous boiling once the dairy is incorporated. Also, extremely acidic ingredients can sometimes cause curdling, but that’s less likely in this particular recipe unless you add something very tart.

Final Thoughts
Well, friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey for today, and I truly hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about trying this incredible beef dish. If there’s one recipe I could urge you to add to your rotation, it’s this one. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The way the tender beef absorbs all those rich, savory flavors from the carefully chosen non-alcohol alternatives and aromatic spices… it’s just pure magic in every bite.
I genuinely believe that cooking should be a joy, a way to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls and our connections with loved ones. This particular recipe encapsulates all of that. It’s comforting, deeply satisfying, and surprisingly straightforward to put together, even if you’re new to cooking with beef. The depth of flavor you achieve is truly restaurant-quality, yet it’s made right in your own kitchen with your own loving hands.
So, please, don’t just read about it – try it! And when you do, I would absolutely love to hear from you. Did you make any fun substitutions? What did your family think? Did you pair it with anything special? Share your experiences, your photos, and your tips in the comments below. Your stories inspire me and our whole community of home cooks. Let’s celebrate the joy of good food together!

Easy Comforting Potato & Beef Sausage Chowder Recipe
A rich, creamy, and satisfying chowder brimming with tender potatoes and savory beef sausage, perfect for a comforting meal on chilly evenings. This recipe delivers profound flavor and nourishment with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
-
1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
-
1 lb ground beef sausage (mild/medium Italian-style)
-
1 large yellow onion, diced
-
2 stalks celery, diced
-
2 large carrots, peeled & diced
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
-
2 cups whole milk
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
3 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & diced (1/2″-3/4″)
-
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
-
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
-
2 bay leaves
-
Salt & fresh black pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Step 1
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 8-10 min until fully browned. Transfer sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 1-2 tbsp rendered fat in the pot. -
Step 2
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 7-10 min until softened. Add minced garlic; cook for 1 min until fragrant, stirring constantly. -
Step 3
Sprinkle 1/2 cup all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir for 2 min to cook the flour. Gradually whisk in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth until smooth and lump-free. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, and cook for 2-3 min until slightly thickened. -
Step 4
Add 3 lbs diced potatoes, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and 2 bay leaves to the pot. Stir gently, bring back to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 min until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. -
Step 5
Stir in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Return the browned beef sausage (and optional 1 cup frozen corn) to the pot. Stir gently and heat through on low for 5-7 min, ensuring all ingredients are warm. Do not let the chowder come to a rolling boil after adding dairy. -
Step 6
Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste the chowder and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. If a thicker chowder is desired, mash some potatoes against the pot side. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-10 min. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 25g | Fat: 25g | Carbs: 35g
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.



Leave a Comment