Comforting Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe for Chilly Nights

Savory aromas of kielbasa potato soup waft through the kitchen, promising warmth and comfort on chilly evenings.

Polish sausage adds a robust depth to this classic one-pot meal that satisfies from the first spoonful.

Tender potatoes and smoky kielbasa create a delightful harmony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Each ingredient brings its own character to this hearty dish, blending perfectly in a creamy broth.

Rich and filling, this soup transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal that feels like a culinary hug.

The recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a bowl of pure, soul-warming deliciousness.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 6

Must-Have Ingredients for Kielbasa Potato Soup

• Kielbasa Sausage: Delivers smoky, rich flavor and hearty protein punch; choose high-quality Polish-style sausage with robust seasoning profile.

• Butter, Chicken Broth, Milk: Creamy base that creates silky texture; select low-sodium broth for controlled saltiness and whole milk for richer consistency.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic foundation providing deep savory undertones; pick fresh, firm onions and plump garlic cloves without sprouting.

• Dried Thyme, Salt, Pepper: Earthy herb that complements kielbasa's smokiness; use fresh-ground pepper and high-quality sea salt for enhanced flavor depth.
• Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Green Onions: Optional garnishes that add creamy, tangy, and fresh elements; choose sharp cheddar or mild cheese based on preference.
• Potatoes: Hearty vegetable creating substantial texture; select firm, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for best soup consistency.

Essential Equipment for Kielbasa Potato Soup Success

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the entire soup, providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Chef's knife: Perfect for slicing kielbasa and dicing potatoes and onions.
• Cutting board: Sturdy surface for preparing ingredients safely.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing soup components.
• Measuring cups: Helps ensure accurate liquid and ingredient measurements.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving soup into individual bowls.

Cooking Guide for Your Next Kielbasa Potato Soup

• Brown the Flavor Makers

Melt butter in a hefty pot and sizzle kielbasa until golden edges appear. The sausage will dance and release its smoky, creating a delicious base for the soup. Once perfectly crispy, lift out the meat and set aside.

• Awaken the Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in onions and garlic. Let them soften and become translucent, filling your kitchen with irresistible scents. Stir gently to prevent burning.

• Build the Soup Foundation

Drop in potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower heat and let everything simmer peacefully. Watch the potatoes become tender and start melting into the liquid.

• Create Creamy Comfort

Pour in milk and sprinkle thyme. Let the soup bubble softly, blending flavors into a creamy embrace. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance.

• Reunite the Ingredients

Return the crispy kielbasa to the pot, stirring to warm through. This step marries all the delicious elements, creating a harmonious soup that feels like a warm hug.

• Serve with Love

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Top with a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh green onions. Grab some crusty bread and dive into pure comfort.

Additions That Take Kielbasa Potato Soup Up a Notch

• Replace kielbasa with smoked turkey sausage for a leaner protein option that still delivers incredible flavor and keeps the soup's signature smoky essence.
• For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to partially puree some potatoes, creating a luxurious thickness without adding extra cream.
• Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets to make this soup keto-friendly while maintaining a similar hearty texture and comforting feel.
• Swap kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth to create a delicious meatless version that doesn't compromise on robust flavor profiles.
• Add a dash of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to enhance the soup's warmth and give it an extra kick that will tantalize taste buds and add depth to the overall dish.

Tasty Sides to Pair with Kielbasa Potato Soup

• Rustic Bread Sidekick: Grab a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough slice to dunk into the creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious kielbasa-infused flavors.
• Cozy Cheese Topper: Sprinkle sharp cheddar or smoked gouda on top for an extra layer of richness that melts beautifully into the warm soup.
• Green Onion Zing: Chop fresh green onions or chives to add a bright, crisp garnish that cuts through the soup's creaminess and provides a fresh pop of color.
• Hearty Salad Companion: Pair the soup with a light mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness and add some refreshing crunch.

Refrigerating and Rewarming Kielbasa Potato Soup

• Transfer leftover soup to airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Sealed properly, the soup stays delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining its hearty flavors and creamy texture.
• Cool the soup completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Frozen soup remains tasty for up to 2-3 months, providing quick meal options for busy days.
• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing.
• Consider freezing soup in individual serving sizes. This strategy allows for quick, personalized meals and prevents unnecessary waste, giving you flexible dining options whenever hunger strikes.

FAQs

• Is kielbasa sausage spicy or mild?

Kielbasa is typically a mild, smoky-flavored Polish sausage. It has a rich, savory taste that adds depth to the soup without being overly spicy, making it suitable for most palates.

• Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with andouille, smoked sausage, or even turkey sausage. Each will bring a unique flavor profile to the soup while maintaining its hearty character.

• Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, you can leave the potato skins on, which adds extra nutrition and rustic texture to the soup. Just make sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly before dicing.

• How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot or add a slurry made from cornstarch and cold water. This will help create a creamier, more substantial consistency.

Hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Polish-inspired kielbasa potato soup brings hearty comfort to winter tables. Rich ingredients meld together, creating a satisfying one-pot meal you’ll savor with each warming spoonful.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz (340 g) kielbasa, sliced into rounds
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsps cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sausage Preparation: Heat a large pot over medium flame and render kielbasa until golden-brown, developing a rich, smoky caramelization. Remove sausage, reserving for later use.
2. Aromatic Base: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until translucent, creating a flavor-packed foundation for the soup. The residual sausage drippings will enhance the overall depth.
3. Potato Integration: Add diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a robust boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Allow potatoes to become tender and absorb the surrounding liquid’s essence for approximately 15 minutes.
4. Creamy Transformation: Pour in milk and sprinkle dried thyme, stirring consistently to develop a smooth, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper, balancing the soup’s intricate flavor profile.
5. Final Assembly: Return kielbasa to the pot, warming it thoroughly and allowing its smoky notes to permeate the entire soup. Ensure all ingredients are heated evenly and harmoniously blended.
6. Serving Suggestion: Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Customize with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Pair with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Notes

Maximize Kielbasa Flavor: Carefully render kielbasa at medium heat to achieve a golden-brown exterior, which concentrates its rich, smoky taste and creates a delicious flavor foundation for the soup.

Control Potato Texture: Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent some chunks from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.

Adapt for Dietary Needs: Substitute dairy milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version, and use low-sodium chicken broth to manage salt intake without compromising taste.

Prevent Curdling Technique: Temper milk by gradually adding a small amount of hot broth before incorporating it fully, which helps maintain a smooth, creamy consistency and prevents unwanted separation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg