Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Ladle the Potato And Sausage Chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes
Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture. Experiment with different types of sausage. For a thicker chowder, use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water). Leftover chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While chowder can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients. Add some kernels from a cob in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or even a little bit of cream cheese for an extra cheesy chowder. Add some cooked shrimp, crab, or clams to the chowder for a delicious seafood twist. Use smoked sausage and a touch of liquid smoke for an intensely smoky flavor. Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chiles for a Southwestern-inspired chowder.
