Ingredients
Soup Base:
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cajun Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Protein Options:
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 pound shrimp (optional, for added protein)
- 1/2 pound chicken, diced (optional)
Instructions
In a large pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until lightly browned. This step enhances the smoky flavor of the soup. If using shrimp or chicken, cook them separately and add later.
Stir in the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. You can also transfer a portion to a blender and then return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream or milk. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if using. Let it melt and blend into the soup.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want extra heat, add more cayenne pepper.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
Notes
Use Russet Potatoes – They break down slightly and help thicken the soup naturally.
Brown the Sausage Well – This enhances its flavor and adds depth to the soup.
Balance the Spice – Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne based on your heat preference.
Blending for Texture – Blend a portion of the soup for a creamy base while keeping some chunks for texture.
Don’t Overcook Dairy – Add cream at the end and avoid boiling it to prevent curdling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg