Classic Dutch Oven Cajun Potato Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed comfort dish that blends smoky andouille sausage, tender potatoes, and bold Cajun spices in a creamy broth. Built in layers using traditional sauté and simmer techniques, this soup delivers warmth and depth in every spoonful. Finished with cream and fresh herbs, it’s the perfect balance of spice and richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Cajun Flavor – Layered spices and andouille sausage create authentic Southern depth.
• One-Pot Simplicity – Everything cooks in a Dutch oven for easy cleanup.
• Hearty and Filling – Potatoes and sausage make it satisfying and comforting.
• Creamy Yet Balanced – Heavy cream softens the spice without overpowering it.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust jalapeño and cayenne to taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Flavors deepen beautifully the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup Base

• 2½ tablespoons olive oil – Helps sauté vegetables and bloom spices.
• 1 large onion, diced – Forms aromatic foundation.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Adds subtle sweetness.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color and balance.
• 1 jalapeño, minced – Provides controlled heat (remove seeds for milder flavor).
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances savory depth.
• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning – Delivers signature spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds smoky undertones.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Provides gentle warmth.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Intensifies heat slightly.
• 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced – Adds smoky, savory richness.
• 1¼ lb potatoes, peeled and cubed – Create hearty texture.
• 32 fl oz low-sodium chicken broth – Forms flavorful liquid base.

For the Finish

• ¾ cup heavy cream – Adds silky richness.
• Salt to taste – Adjusts final seasoning.
• Fresh chives – Bright garnish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2–3 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Bloom the Spices
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne over vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to release aromatic oils.

Brown the Sausage
Add sliced andouille sausage and cook 2–3 minutes, allowing it to render flavorful oils.

Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in cubed potatoes and cook 1–2 minutes to coat with seasoning. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat and simmer 15–17 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.

Finish with Cream and Herbs
Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream slowly. Season with salt as needed. Add chopped parsley and garnish with fresh chives.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Cut Potatoes Evenly – Ensures consistent cooking.
• Bloom Spices Properly – Enhances depth and aroma.
• Avoid Boiling After Cream – Prevents curdling.
• Control Spice Level – Adjust jalapeño and cayenne.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth – Prevents overly salty result.
• Let It Rest – Flavors meld even more after 10 minutes off heat.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 400–450 calories per serving (estimated; listed total appears overstated)

Perfect Pairings

• Crusty French bread
• Side Caesar salad
• Cornbread muffins
• Sparkling water with lemon

Ideal Occasions

• Cozy winter dinners
• Family gatherings
• Casual entertaining
• Meal prep for busy weeks

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store refrigerated up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently over medium-low heat.
• Add splash of broth if thickened after storage.
• Not ideal for freezing due to cream content.

Creative Variations to Try

• Seafood Twist – Add shrimp in final 5 minutes of cooking.
• Smokier Flavor – Use smoked cheddar stirred in at finish.
• Lighter Option – Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Vegetarian Version – Omit sausage and add smoked mushrooms.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soup too spicy – Stir in extra cream or broth.
• Potatoes mushy – Reduce simmer time slightly.
• Cream separating – Add off heat and stir gently.
• Bland flavor – Add pinch of salt or extra Cajun seasoning.

Why This Recipe Works

This soup builds flavor through classic layering: sautéing aromatics creates sweetness, blooming spices intensifies their aroma, and browning sausage releases savory oils. Simmering potatoes in seasoned broth allows them to absorb flavor while naturally thickening the soup. Adding cream off heat stabilizes the emulsion and prevents curdling, resulting in a smooth, luxurious texture. At roughly 400–450 calories per serving, this dish delivers hearty comfort with balanced richness and spice.

Final Thoughts

Classic Dutch Oven Cajun Potato Soup is a warming, satisfying meal that blends bold Southern spice with creamy comfort. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough to serve guests. For a lighter variation, reduce cream or increase vegetables while maintaining its signature Cajun depth and smoky character.