Cajun Potato Soup

Cajun Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish packed with a combination of tender russet potatoes, smoky andouille, and bold Cajun spices. This soup is creamy and rich, with a slight kick that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply need something to soothe you on a chilly evening, this recipe delivers just the right balance of flavor and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how this soup combines the heartiness of russet potatoes with the smoky richness of andouille. The blend of Cajun spices adds just enough heat to make each spoonful exciting, while the creaminess from the heavy cream and cheese makes it incredibly satisfying. This soup is perfect for those nights when I want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s simple to make, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 ring (13.5 ounces) andouille, 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 and cubed

• ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded

• Parsley, chopped for garnish

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Andouille:

   • In a large pot over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the andouille and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove the andouille from the pot and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In the same pot, add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened (about 5-8 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.

3. Make the Soup Base:

   • Add the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, and cubed potatoes to the pot. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Finish the Soup:

   • Return the andouille to the pot, then add the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until everything is heated through and the cheese has melted.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 6 servings. It takes about 20 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook, for a total time of 1 hour and 5 minutes. Perfect for a satisfying, cozy dinner.

Variations

I like to mix things up with this recipe to fit my mood or dietary needs:

• Adjusting Spice Level: If I’m not in the mood for too much heat, I can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. For extra spice, I add a bit more.

• Different Proteins: While andouille is traditional, I sometimes switch it out for smoked kielbasa, chorizo, or even turkey sausage for a leaner version.

• Add Extra Veggies: I often add spinach, corn, or carrots for a bit more texture and a boost of nutrition.

• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: I can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the andouille and using vegetable broth. For a vegan twist, I swap the heavy cream and cheese for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.

Storage/Reheating

I always love making a big batch of Cajun Potato Soup because it keeps well for leftovers. After the soup has cooled to room temperature, I store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for 3-4 days. If I want to keep it longer, I can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When I reheat it, I usually need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. It’s great reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein in this soup?

Absolutely! Smoked kielbasa or even chicken sausage are great alternatives to andouille, offering a slightly different flavor but still maintaining the richness of the dish.

Is this soup spicy?

Cajun Potato Soup has a kick from the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, but the spice level can easily be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the amount of these spices for a milder soup or add more for an extra heat boost.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making in advance.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the andouille and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make it vegan, replace the heavy cream and cheese with coconut milk or cashew cream.

How do I reheat frozen soup?

When reheating frozen soup, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and then heat it up on the stove or in the microwave. I usually add a bit of broth or cream to bring back the original creamy texture.

Conclusion

Cajun Potato Soup is the perfect blend of hearty potatoes, smoky andouille, and bold Cajun spices, making it a comforting dish that is sure to please. Whether I’m looking for a cozy meal on a chilly night or something to serve at a gathering, this soup hits the spot. It’s easy to adjust to fit various tastes and dietary needs, and it keeps well for meal prepping or leftovers. No matter how you make it, Cajun Potato Soup will always be a comforting, flavorful choice!