This Creamy Cajun Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender potatoes and a kick of Cajun spices, it’s both rich and comforting.
I love how this soup warms you up on chilly days. Plus, it’s so easy to make that I sometimes whip it up just to cozy up on the couch. Perfect with some crusty bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. If you’re watching carbs, cauliflower can be a great low-carb substitute. Just blend it for a creamy finish!
Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a nice kick, but if you want a milder flavor, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or skip the meat entirely!
Cream: Heavy cream creates that luscious texture, but you can swap it with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just know it might change the flavor a bit.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano for a quick alternative. Adjust to your spice level – I love to kick up the heat!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in My Soup?
To achieve that creamy texture, there are two main steps you should focus on.
- Caramelizing the vegetables: Sauté onions, celery, and carrots until they’re soft and slightly golden. This builds a flavorful base.
- Mashing the potatoes: After cooking, mash some potatoes in the pot using a masher or immersion blender. This helps thicken the soup while keeping some chunks for texture.
By following these tips, your soup will be rich and satisfyingly creamy! Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup sliced andouille sausage or smoked sausage
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. All in all, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and the onions are translucent. This will create a tasty base for your soup.
2. Add Garlic and Sausage:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced sausage to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and everything smells amazing!
3. Stir in the Potatoes and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well so that the potatoes and sausage are coated with those flavorful spices.
4. Add Chicken Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork.
5. Thicken the Soup:
Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This helps thicken the soup while keeping some chunks for texture. Stir to combine!
6. Add the Cream:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and cook over low heat for another 5-7 minutes, just until everything is heated through. If you’re adding cooked shrimp, toss them in now to warm them up.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give the soup a taste and adjust any seasonings as needed. If you want more heat, feel free to add a bit more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with plenty of sliced green onions on top. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and spicy warmth of this hearty Cajun potato soup!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Potato Soup
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creaminess, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Have Andouille Sausage?
No worries! You can substitute it with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version. Just add extra vegetables or beans for protein!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of cream to restore the texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup; just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it to avoid curdling.
