This hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup is warm and filling, perfect for chilly days! With flavorful kielbasa, tender potatoes, and creamy broth, it’s comfort in a bowl.
You won’t be able to stop at just one bowl! I love to top it with some crispy bacon or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra treat. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Making this soup is super easy! Just simmer everything together, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. It’s a great way to use up leftover potatoes, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: The star of this soup! Look for smoked kielbasa as it adds a fantastic flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey kielbasa works well too!
Potatoes: I like using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re concerned about carbs, try using cauliflower for a lighter twist.
Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its rich texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk if you want it a bit lighter. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a wonderful alternative.
Chicken Broth: A good broth is key to flavor. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. You can also use vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme adds warmth, while smoked paprika gives a nice depth. Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs, like Italian seasoning or dill, for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Balance of Creaminess and Flavor?
The balance of creaminess and flavor comes from layering your ingredients carefully. Start by browning the kielbasa; this builds a savory base. Sauté the onions and garlic next to extract their flavors before adding your potatoes and broth.
- Use a potato masher after cooking to thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture without fully blending.
- Stir in the cream at the end and avoid boiling it to keep the cream from curdling.
- Taste along the way! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.
And don’t forget the optional bacon on top—it’s an easy way to add extra crunch and flavor to your bowl of soup!
How to Make Kielbasa Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb smoked kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: cooked bacon pieces for topping
- Bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy soup will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, bringing the total time to approximately 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Kielbasa:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it has a nice brown color on both sides, approximately 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced potatoes and shredded carrots, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the chicken broth! Pour it in, and then add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Thicken the Soup:
When the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to gently mash some of the potatoes, creating a thicker texture, while still leaving some chunks for that rustic feel.
6. Add Cream and Kielbasa:
Stir in the heavy cream and the browned kielbasa. Allow everything to heat through for another 5 minutes, but avoid boiling.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your soup! Add more salt and pepper, if necessary, to suit your taste.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. If you like a bit more flavor, feel free to sprinkle some bacon pieces on top.
9. Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, accompanied by some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup!
Warm up with this creamy, smoky, and completely satisfying dish that’s perfect for any chilly day!
Can I Use Fresh Kielbasa Instead of Smoked Kielbasa?
Yes! Fresh kielbasa will work fine, but you’ll need to cook it thoroughly. Just make sure to brown it well in the pot to build that delicious flavor base before adding the other ingredients.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut cream or a plant-based cream to keep it rich and creamy without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently, or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve With Kielbasa Potato Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it with a slice of your favorite bread to soak up the creamy goodness!
