What is a Kielbasa potato soup? Is it one of those recipes that just feels like home? If you love a good hearty potato soup, but want something with more oomph, this is it. Think of it as the potato soup’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin, thanks to the smoky kielbasa. My grandma used to make a similar soup, and the aroma alone brings back so many wonderful memories. I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it my own, and I promise, it’s ridiculously easy to create and taste. Is it easier to eat?
What is Kielbasa Potato Soup?
What is Kielbasa Potato Soup? What is kiel What’s the difference between kielbasa and potato soup? Is it a good idea to hug someone on chilly evenings? The potatoes create this luscious, comforting base, and then the kielbasa just kicks everything up a notch. Is it fancy? I always think of it as the kind of soup that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out. What’s the perfect bridge between soup and stew?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, there are so many reasons why this Kielbasa Potato Soup is a winner! First, the flavor is just incredible. The smoky, slightly spicy kielbasa perfectly complements the creamy potatoes, creating a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. I used smoked paprika to really get that essence through it. Second, it’s ridiculously easy to make. I’m talking one-pot wonder, perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly. Potatoes and kielbasa are both pretty inexpensive, so you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. I love how versatile it is too! You can easily customize it with different veggies, spices, or even a splash of cream for extra richness. What I love most about this soup is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 45 minutes, tops. This is way faster than making a traditional stew, and it’s just as satisfying. My family begs for this soup all the time, especially when the weather starts to cool down. It’s become a total staple in our house, and I have a feeling it will become one in yours too! If you’re a fan of my Creamy Tomato Soup, then you’re in for a treat!
How do you make Kielbasa Potato Soup?
Quick Overview
How do I make Kielbasa Potato Soup? I’ll start by sautéing some onions and garlic, then adding the potatoes, kielbasa, and broth. Simmer it until the potatoes are tender, then mash some of them to create a creamy texture. What are some great garnishes for parsley? Is it so simple yet so flavorful? What are some of the best ingredients to make it spicier? How do I make it dairy free? Is it safe to skip the cream or use a plant-based alternative?
Ingredients
For the Soup:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to sauté the vegetables and add a base of flavor.
What are some good ways to make a savory soup. Yellow or white onions work best.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with its characteristic aroma and flavor. Freshly minced is always the best!
* 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced: The star of the show! I prefer smoked kielbasa for its deep flavor, but any variety will work.
* 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. Is there a vegetarian alternative to vegetable broth?
* 1.5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture. I like to leave the peels on for added nutrients sometimes!
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor of kielbasa.
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note to the soup. Fresh thyme works wonderfully too!
* Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your liking. If the kielbasa is already salty, go easy on the salt at first.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): Adds richness and creaminess. If you like a lighter version of milk, you can substitute with half-and-half. I’ve even used almond milk and it was fantastic!
For Garnish:
* Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and freshness. You could also use chives or dill.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do you cook garlic?
Step 2: Add the Kielbasa and Potatoes
Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. How do you add smoky flavor to a soup? Next, add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until thick. When the potatoes are tender, they will be tender. How do you pierce a fork? I always check every few minutes to make sure things are progressing nicely.
Step 4: Mash Some Potatoes
When potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes. How do I create a creamy texture without adding cream? If you’re using an immersion blender, be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some chunks of food. What is potato in soup? I prefer to leave it a little chunky for that rustic feel.
Step 5: Add Cream (Optional)
If you’re using cream, stir it in at this point. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to start with a small amount of salt, as the kielbasa is already salty. Do not let the soup boil after adding the cream?
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
What is the best way to serve soup with fresh parsley? Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. I love to add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top too!
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
What is Kielbasa Potato Soup? What are What are some good serving suggestions for different occasions?
For a casual lunch:Serve with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad would also be a nice addition.
What is a cozy dinner?What are some good side dishes to serve with a grilled cheese sandwich? A side of roasted vegetables would also be delicious.
For a Potluck:Bring a big pot of soup along with some crackers and shredded cheese. It’s always good!
For a Cold Winter Day:Enjoy it by the fire with a warm blanket and good book. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
My family loves to have this soup with a side of cornbread. The sweetness of the cornbread perfectly complements the savory soup. It’s a match made in heaven!
What are some tips for making Kielbasa Potato Soup?
I’ve learned a few tricks that really take this Kielbasa Potato Soup to the next level. How do I make a perfect batch?
How do you choose the right potatoes?Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for their creamy texture. How do potatoes break down in soup? I’ve even used sweet potatoes for a sweeter, slightly different flavor.
Don’t skip the sautéing.Sautéing onions, garlic, and kielbasa is crucial for building flavor. How do you add the sweetness of the onions and garlic to a soup? The smoky flavor of the kielbasa What makes a difference?
Partially Mash the Soup: What are Partially mashing the soup creates a creamy texture without having to add a lot of cream. I like to use a potato masher for a rustic texture, but an immersion blender works well too. Just be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some chunks of potato in the soup.
Season to Taste: Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember that the kielbasa is already salty, so go easy on the salt at first. You can always add more later. I also like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill add a pop of freshness and flavor. I like to garnish the soup with chopped parsley right before serving. It really brightens up the flavors!
Experiment with Variations: This soup is very versatile, so feel free to experiment with different variations. You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn. You can also use different types of sausage or broth. Get creative and make it your own!
I made the mistake once of using too much smoked paprika, and it completely overpowered the other flavors. So, be careful not to overdo it!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Kielbasa Potato Soup is great for making ahead of time or for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Room Temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of broth or water when reheating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave. The texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.
Glaze Timing Advice: Not applicable for this recipe.
I always make a big batch of this soup on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s such a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, my friends! My recipe for the most comforting and delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup you’ll ever make. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty soup to warm you up on a cold day, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. And if you’re in the mood for some other one-pot wonder recipes, check out my Chicken Noodle Soup recipe! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, I’d love to hear about them too! Share your creations with me on social media using #MyFavoriteSoup.
Kielbasa Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Kielbasa sausage
- 2 lb Potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup Onion, chopped
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Milk or cream
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook kielbasa according to package directions. Slice into 1/2 inch pieces and set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté onions in a little oil until softened.
- Add potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in milk or cream, cooked kielbasa, salt and pepper. Heat through and serve.
