My family loves cozy dinners, especially when they involve minimal cleanup. This Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder has become a weeknight staple, not only because it’s delicious and satisfying but also because it dirties only one pot! The blend of sweet potato, apple, and sausage creates a comforting warmth, while the creamy “cheese” sauce adds a rich, satisfying element.
The secret to that “cheesy” flavor? It’s not cheese at all! Cashews blended with nutritional yeast create a magically dairy-free cream sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable to your favorite flavors. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love It
This Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy – the Instant Pot does most of the work! It’s also packed with flavor, featuring a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes from the sweet potato, apple, and sausage. Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy and totally dairy-free! The creamy, “cheesy” sauce comes from cashews and nutritional yeast, making it a guilt-free comfort food.
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Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder is a quick, easy, and healthy weeknight meal. The creamy, dairy-free “cheese” sauce is made from cashews and nutritional yeast, while sweet potato and apple add a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 3 grass-fed sausages or brats, diced
- 1 medium sweet potato, cubed
- 1 medium apple, cored and diced
- ½ large onion, diced
- 2 large handfuls of baby spinach
- 8 oz grain-free pasta
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 4 cups water, divided
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Dice the sausage, sweet potato, apple, and onion. Measure out the remaining ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients in Instant Pot: Place the sausage, sweet potato, apple, onion, spinach, and pasta in your Instant Pot.
- Make the “Cheesy” Sauce: In a high-powered blender, combine 1 cup of the water, cashews, nutritional yeast, salt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth.
- Add Sauce and Remaining Water to Instant Pot: Pour the cashew cream mixture into the Instant Pot. Add the remaining 3 cups of water, swirling the blender to get all the remaining sauce. Stir everything together in the Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
- Serve and Enjoy: Give the chowder a good stir and serve immediately.
Notes
This recipe is easily adaptable to dietary needs. Use plant-based sausage and ensure your pasta is gluten-free for a vegan and gluten-free version. Adjust seasonings to your liking. The cooking time remains the same regardless of variations.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pressure cook
- Cuisine: American
What You’ll Need
This recipe is surprisingly simple, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry and fridge. Here’s the lineup:
- For the Chowder:
- 3 grass-fed sausages or brats, diced
1 medium sweet potato, cubed
1 medium apple, cored and diced
½ large onion, diced
2 large handfuls of baby spinach
8 oz grain-free pasta (lentil, chickpea, or black bean work well)
- For the “Cheesy” Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews
4 cups water, divided
¼ cup nutritional yeast
2 tsp sea salt
2 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
¼ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Dice the sausage, sweet potato, apple, and onion. Measure out the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Instant Pot
Place the sausage, sweet potato, apple, onion, spinach, and pasta in your Instant Pot.
Step 3: Make the “Cheesy” Sauce
In a high-powered blender, combine 1 cup of the water, cashews, nutritional yeast, salt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Remaining Water to Instant Pot
Pour the cashew cream mixture into the Instant Pot. Add the remaining 3 cups of water, swirling the blender to get all the remaining sauce. Stir everything together in the Instant Pot.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Give the chowder a good stir and serve immediately.
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
- Soaking the Cashews: For an extra creamy “cheese” sauce, soak the cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes before blending. You can even skip this step if you have a high-powered blender, but soaking always enhances the creaminess.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Or, for a smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika. See our guide on how to use spices for even more ideas.
- Thickness Control: If you prefer a thicker chowder, reduce the amount of water slightly. For a thinner chowder, add a little more water at the end.
Try These Variations
- Spicy Sausage: For a little heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also try adding a dash of hot sauce to each serving. Explore our hot sauce recipes if you are looking to make your own.
- Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based sausage. Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans for extra protein. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Heartier Chowder: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or corn for a more robust chowder.
No matter which variation you choose, you’re bound to love the creamy, comforting flavors of this Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder!
Can I use different vegetables or meat in this chowder?
This chowder is wonderfully adaptable! You can swap the sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Different vegetables like diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers would also be delicious additions. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is designed to be dairy-free, using cashews and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, “cheesy” flavor. However, if you’re not dairy-free, you can certainly add a splash of milk or cream at the end for extra richness.
How long does this chowder last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I make this without an Instant Pot?
Yes! While this recipe calls for an Instant Pot, you can certainly make it on the stovetop. Simply sauté the sausage, vegetables, and pasta in a large pot, then add the cashew cream mixture and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables and pasta are tender.
How to Serve
A warm bowl of this Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder is a meal in itself. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comforting. A side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A simple green salad adds a refreshing touch, but honestly, this chowder is so satisfying you might not need anything else. For a festive flair, serve it at your next game day gathering. Try adding some chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a garnish. Need more ideas? Look at these serving suggestions for inspiration.
That’s a Wrap
This Instant Pot “Cheesy” Sausage Chowder is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The creamy, “cheesy” broth is surprisingly dairy-free thanks to the magic of cashews and nutritional yeast! Share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it! Check out our other delicious dinner recipes for more weeknight inspiration.
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