Cajun Potato Soup Recipe

Cajun Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food packed with smoky sausage, tender Yukon gold potatoes, and bold Louisiana inspired spices. This hearty, creamy soup combines the rich flavors of andouille sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a touch of heat from jalapeño to create a satisfying one pot meal. Ready in under one hour, it is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for weekend gatherings. With simple pantry ingredients and easy steps, this Cajun Potato Soup delivers restaurant quality flavor right from your kitchen while serving 4 to 5 people generously.

Prep time 15 to 20 minutes
Cook time 30 minutes
Makes 8 1 2 cups

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Potato Soup

There are countless soup recipes out there, but this Cajun Potato Soup stands out for several reasons.

First, it is incredibly flavorful. The smoky depth of andouille sausage pairs beautifully with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, creating a layered taste that feels warm and comforting with every spoonful.

Second, it is easy to make. With just one Dutch oven or medium pot, you can prepare the entire dish in under 50 minutes. Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal.

Third, it is family friendly. You can easily adjust the spice level by removing the jalapeño seeds or using milder seasoning, making it suitable for both spice lovers and those who prefer gentler heat.

Finally, it is versatile and satisfying. Creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory sausage make this soup hearty enough to serve as a complete meal.

Ingredients

Here is everything you need to make this rich and comforting Cajun Potato Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, small diced about 1 1 2 cups
1 medium green bell pepper, small diced about 1 cup
1 medium red bell pepper, small diced about 1 1 4 cups
1 medium jalapeño pepper, small diced about 1 4 cup
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1 4 teaspoons Old Bay or Cajun seasoning with salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
12 ounces andouille sausage, halved lengthwise then thinly sliced
1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, small diced about 2 3 4 cups
1 32 ounce carton low sodium chicken broth about 4 cups
3 4 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Finely chopped fresh chives for garnish optional

Step-by-Step How to Make Cajun Potato Soup

1. Sauté the vegetables

Begin by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven or medium pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Build the flavor base

Sprinkle in the Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly in the spices.

Add the sliced andouille sausage and diced Yukon gold potatoes. Stir everything together and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. You will notice the potatoes begin to change from translucent to opaque. This step helps deepen the flavor before adding liquid.

3. Simmer the soup

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat if needed to maintain a steady simmer without boiling vigorously.

Let the soup cook for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Finish with cream

Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with finely chopped fresh chives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Helpful Tips

Use Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture. They hold their shape well while becoming tender and creamy inside.

Slice the andouille sausage evenly to ensure consistent cooking and balanced flavor in every spoonful.

Control the spice level by removing jalapeño seeds for milder heat or adding a pinch of cayenne if you prefer more kick.

Do not boil the soup vigorously after adding cream. Gentle heat keeps the texture smooth and prevents curdling.

For thicker soup, lightly mash a small portion of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream.

Substitutions And Variations

This Cajun Potato Soup is flexible and easy to customize.

You can substitute yellow bell pepper for green bell pepper if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.

Turkey or chicken sausage works well if you want a lighter option. Smoked kielbasa can also replace andouille for a milder taste.

For a dairy free version, replace heavy cream with full fat coconut milk. It adds richness while keeping the soup creamy.

To add more vegetables, consider diced celery or carrots sautéed with the onion.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add white beans for protein and heartiness.

Storage Instructions

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and taste even better the next day.

To freeze, place cooled soup in freezer safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

If the soup thickens after storage, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Nutritional Information

Per serving approximate values based on 5 servings:

Calories 450 to 500
Protein 18 to 22 grams
Carbohydrates 30 to 35 grams
Fat 30 to 35 grams
Fiber 3 to 4 grams
Sodium varies depending on sausage and seasoning used

This soup provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Using low sodium broth helps control salt levels while maintaining bold flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cajun Potato Soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.

Serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cream.

For a cozy dinner party, offer it as a starter before grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

You can also top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.

This soup works wonderfully for meal prep, game day gatherings, or casual family dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Potato Soup

Can I make Cajun Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is ideal for making ahead. The flavors develop even more after resting in the refrigerator for a day. Simply reheat gently before serving.

How spicy is Cajun Potato Soup?

The spice level is moderate but adjustable. Removing jalapeño seeds and using mild Cajun seasoning will keep it family friendly. You can increase heat by adding extra seasoning or a pinch of cayenne.

Can I thicken Cajun Potato Soup?

Absolutely. You can mash some of the cooked potatoes in the pot or let the soup simmer a few extra minutes to reduce slightly.

Can I freeze Cajun Potato Soup with cream?

Yes, but texture may change slightly. Stir well while reheating and add a splash of broth if needed to restore smoothness.

What potatoes work best?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they become tender and creamy without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for spending time in the kitchen with this Cajun Potato Soup recipe. It is one of my favorite comfort meals because it combines bold Southern flavor with simple ingredients and easy steps. I love how the smoky sausage and creamy potatoes come together in such a satisfying way without requiring complicated techniques. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself on a cozy evening, I hope this soup brings warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking and thank you for being part of this wonderful food-loving community.

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