Italian Sausage Potato Soup

With the weather becoming cooler I have been in the mood for soups and chilis. This is a great recipe. I love finding new recipes our family enjoys!

adapted from ourbestbites.com

1 lb mild ground Italian sausage

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 large onion, diced
5-6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
8 cups (64 oz) chicken broth
2 pounds red potatoes, diced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups low-fat milk
3 ounces light cream cheese
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 cups baby spinach, chopped

Place sausage in large pot. Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, onion, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the sausage is fully cooked and drain if necessary. Add the chicken broth and Italian seasoning, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil. Add diced potatoes, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Cook potatoes until tender.

While the potatoes are cooking, place the milk, cream cheese, flour, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth. Heat the butter over medium-low heat in a small saucepan, then add the milk mixture and cook over medium heat until thick (like a very thick cream soup or a stirrable pudding). When the potatoes are cooked, add the thickened milk mixture and chopped spinach. If desired, season with additional crushed red pepper flakes and kosher salt to taste and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serves 8-10.

Husband rating: 3.5 (I give it a 4)