Irresistible Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe Hearty Delicious
There’s something magical about the first chill in the air that makes you crave cozy sweaters, warm blankets, and of course, a big bowl of soup. Oh, how I love soup season! Growing up, my grandmother would whip up her famous Kielbasa Potato Soup on those brisk autumn days, filling the house with a fragrant, homey aroma that felt like a hug in a bowl. This recipe holds a special place in my heart—and my kitchen—as it brings together comforting flavors of savory kielbasa, creamy potatoes, and earthy herbs.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to warm your soul after a long day, this Kielbasa Potato Soup is everything you need and more. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it showcases some of the most heartwarming flavors you can imagine. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients that you might already have on hand.
- Comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Hearty and filling, making it a complete meal.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup:
- 1 pound smoked kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (I love using Yukon Gold for their buttery texture!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium for a lighter option)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for that creamy goodness)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a little warmth!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional but lovely)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a flavorful pot of Kielbasa Potato Soup.
- Sauté the Kielbasa: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5 minutes. This step brings out all that delicious smoky flavor!
- Add the Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. The smell alone will make you feel like you’re in a cozy kitchen!
- In with the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the dried thyme and smoked paprika. Stir everything together so that the spices coat the potatoes well.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You can already imagine how warm and inviting your kitchen smells!
- Blend it Up (Optional): For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before adding the cream. This adds a nice thickness without losing the chunkiness of the potatoes and kielbasa. If you like your soup chunky, feel free to skip this step!
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll want to taste it at this point—oh my goodness, it’s heavenly!
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy every warm bite!
Pro Tips & Variations
Here are some fun twists and tips to make this recipe your own:
- Spice it Up: If you love a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the onions.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies like carrots, celery, or even spinach. Just add them when you add the potatoes!
- Make it Lighter: For a healthier version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or use low-fat milk. The taste will still be rich but a touch lighter!
- Serving Style: Consider topping each bowl with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added indulgence!
Serving Suggestions
To serve this Kielbasa Potato Soup, I highly recommend pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread or buttery biscuits for dipping. It’s the perfect complement—like finding the perfect soulmate for your soup! You could also serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette; the brightness of the salad balances the richness of the soup wonderfully.
A cozy mug of hot apple cider or a chilled glass of white wine would also be delightful accompaniments. Each spoonful of soup, paired with a dash of apple cider, will surely evoke those warm fall feelings!
Storage Tips
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal! Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat!
- Freeze: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months! Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as soup expands when frozen. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While the smoked kielbasa is fantastic, you can easily swap it for other types of sausage like andouille, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose to maintain that delicious flavor profile.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the kielbasa with vegetarian sausage or simply omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add lots of your favorite veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free option like coconut milk for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. Adjust the quantity to get the creaminess you desire!
How can I thicken the soup?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender or add a cornstarch slurry (mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water) while it’s simmering. Just keep an eye on it while it cooks to get the desired thickness!
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to try making this Kielbasa Potato Soup as I am to share it with you! It’s heartwarming, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting, especially as the leaves begin to fall and the days grow shorter. Don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you enjoyed it or if you made any fun variations of your own! Happy cooking and warm soup season, my friends!
Irresistible Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe Hearty Delicious
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Savor the flavors of kielbasa in a hearty potato soup This easy recipe creates a delicious comfort dish perfect for any day Enjoy
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A comforting and hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup that combines savory kielbasa with creamy potatoes and earthy herbs—a perfect dish for soup season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Keywords: Kielbasa, Potato Soup, Comfort Food, Soup Recipe