Iowa is having record snowfall for the month of February this year and it does not appear to be letting up anytime soon…more snow forecasted for the weekend. With all the cold and snowy days we have had lots of snowman building, snow tunnels and sledding.

And some climbing of the walls, literally. 😂

After our time outdoors we all are craving some warm comfort foods to eat. Our main staple has been soups, they are generally easy to make and so many varieties. This Cheesy Sausage & Potato Chowder has probably been my favorite of the season. It is hearty, full of flavor, cheesy and made with simple ingredients. This recipe is one to try!

Cheesy Sausage & Potato Chowder

Ingredients

1 lb mild Italian sausage
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
4 cups peeled and diced potato
3 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup diced celery
1 cup 1/2 and 1/2
1.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

In a large pan heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the onions and saute until translucent and add the sausage. Break apart sausage while browning. When browned, drain off grease from sausage and set aside
In a soup pot, combine the potatoes, chicken broth and celery. Over medium high heat bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer apprx 20 minutes until potatoes are tender
With a slotted spoon transfer the cooked sausage and onion mixture to the soup pot. Add in the 1/2 and 1/2 and cheddar cheese stirring until combined and heated through.
Serve with extra cheddar cheese sprinkled on top and cracked black pepper