Cheesy Sausage Potato Stew

Introduction:

This delicious Cheesy Sausage Potato Stew is a hearty, rich, and creamy meal perfect for cold nights. Made with smoked sausage, potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is both filling and decadent. It’s a comforting, stick-to-your-bones kind of dish, ideal for when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The stew is easy to prepare and a guaranteed family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 14 ounces smoked sausage (chopped into ½-inch pieces)
• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 3 garlic cloves (minced or pressed)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or 2 cans, 15 oz each)
• 3½ cups diced russet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
• 2 celery ribs (diced small)
• 5 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
• ¼ cup and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (any percentage)
• 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 1½ cups)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, extra shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced smoked sausage and cook until browned. Transfer the sausage to a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to turn translucent. Add garlic and cook until golden and fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Simmer the Potatoes: Add chicken broth, diced potatoes, and celery to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes can easily be smashed with a fork.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Roughly mash about half of the potatoes in the pot to create a thicker texture, while leaving some chunks for bite.
5. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate medium pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until it turns lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles at the edges. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine and Season: Stir the cheese sauce into the soup. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and top with optional toppings like sour cream or extra cheese if desired.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Sausage Potato Stew is a perfect blend of smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with crusty bread and roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors that make this recipe a favorite!