Little Smokie Potato Cheese Soup
A creamy, savory potato cheese soup with smoky sausage flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and gatherings, offering hearty texture and rich taste in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put smokies, celery, and onions in a pan; cook until tender. Drain off grease.
- Mix in diced potatoes.
- Cover with water; cook until potatoes are tender, not mushy.
- Drain water from the pot.
- In another saucepan, mix Cheez Whiz, milk, and cooked celery.
- Cook until cheese melts and mixture is smooth.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the cooked smokies, celery, onions, and potatoes.
- Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the Little Smokies with turkey or chicken sausage. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but firm. This soup is rich and pairs beautifully with Holiday-Golden Parmesan Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but can be complemented with a side salad or some crusty bread. For added flavor, consider topping each bowl with crispy bacon bits or chopped green onions. It also makes a great appetizer for gatherings. Serve with Peach Custard Ice Cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture of the cheese. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Smokie Potato Cheese Soup contains roughly 640 calories, with 10g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1532mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of diced potatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just ensure they are peeled and diced into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well in this soup. If you prefer a smoother consistency, consider mashing a portion of the cooked potatoes before mixing them back into the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the initial cooking stage with the smokies, celery, and onions. Alternatively, stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture can give it a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the Cheez Whiz mixture just before serving to maintain its creamy texture. If making ahead, reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk or water to adjust the consistency if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).