Can I make this soup less spicy but still flavorful?

Absolutely! The beauty of this soup is its adaptability. Reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper and use a mild Cajun seasoning blend. The andouille sausage will still provide plenty of flavor without overwhelming heat. You can also increase the amount of cream to mellow the spices further.

What can I substitute for andouille sausage if I can't find it?

Kielbasa or smoked sausage makes an excellent substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. If you want to maintain that distinctive Cajun character, add a bit more Cajun seasoning and a dash of liquid smoke to the soup.

Can I use different potatoes in this recipe?

Yes! While russets are ideal for their starchy quality that helps thicken the soup, Yukon Golds offer a buttery flavor that works beautifully too. Red potatoes will hold their shape better if you prefer a chunkier texture. Just be aware that waxy potatoes won't break down as much to thicken the broth.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. The coconut flavor is surprisingly complementary to the Cajun spices, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the heat nicely.

Cajun Potato Soup Recipe

Name: Cajun Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 ring (13.5 ounces) andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds; 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup); ½ cup diced celery (about 1 rib); ½ red bell pepper, seeded, diced; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cups (960 g) chicken broth; 4 large russet potatoes, peeled, cubed; ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream; 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded; Parsley, chopped for garnish

Description

Warm up your day with this hearty and flavorful Cajun Potato Soup. Packed with savory and spicy notes from andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and creamy potatoes, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners or chilly evenings. A dish that combines robust southern flavors with creamy richness, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Sausage

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 ring (13.5 ounces) andouille sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

Vegetables

1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup diced celery (about 1 rib)
1/2 red bell pepper, seeded, diced
2 teaspoons garlic, minced

Soup

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cups (960 g) chicken broth
4 large russet potatoes, peeled, cubed
1/2 cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream
1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Parsley, chopped for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once it is hot, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate or bowl while preparing the rest of the soup.
Cook the Vegetables:
Using the same pot, add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper, and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic, and cook for one additional minute, ensuring that the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
Prepare the Soup Base:
Add the Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a low simmer. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and softened.
Combine and Finish:
Once the potatoes are tender, return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
Serve and Garnish:
Finally, garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it warm and enjoy a comforting, flavorful bowl of Cajun Potato Soup!

Notes

For added heat, you can increase the quantity of cayenne pepper or use hot paprika.
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes while they are simmering.
Andouille sausage adds authentic Cajun flavor, but you can substitute it with smoked sausage or spicy chorizo.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave while stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 60mg