Cajun Potato Soup

Ingredients Breakdown

Sausage

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 ring (13.5 oz) andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

Vegetables

• 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup diced celery (about 1 rib)
• ½ red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 tsp garlic, minced

Soup

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp 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

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the sausage slices and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-8 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Soup:
   Add Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, and cubed potatoes to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Finish the Soup:
   Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy whipping cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until everything is heated through and the cheese has melted.

5. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

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Pro Tips

• For extra creaminess, you can blend part of the soup before adding the sausage back in. This will create a thicker base.
• If you prefer less heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to taste.
• For a more smoky flavor, try using smoked sausage instead of andouille.

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Perfect Pairings

• Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Beverage: A cold beer or a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the rich flavors.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pot: When cooking the sausage, make sure there’s enough space for the pieces to brown properly. If needed, cook in batches.
• Underseasoning: The Cajun seasoning and other spices are essential for flavor, so don’t skimp on them!
• Not Checking Potatoes: Test the potatoes with a fork. They should be fork-tender before proceeding to the next step.

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FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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Final Thoughts

This Cajun Sausage and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any cold day. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy broth, and tender potatoes is irresistible. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of freshness and enjoy!