This warm Kielbasa Potato Soup is packed with tasty sausage and creamy potatoes. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need a bowl of comfort!
Honestly, who can resist that smoky flavor from the kielbasa? I love how quickly it comes together—just chop, toss in, and let it simmer. Dinner is sorted! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: The star of this soup! You can use fresh, smoked, or even turkey kielbasa for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, consider substituting with a plant-based sausage for a similar texture.
Potatoes: I typically use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes—they are creamy and hold up well in soups. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to swap in frozen diced potatoes for convenience.
Bacon: While this adds a lovely smoky flavor, you can skip it for a lighter dish, or use turkey bacon if you’re looking for an alternative. Prosciutto is another tasty option if you have it on hand!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, half-and-half works great. You could also use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though it will change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Perfectly Tender in the Soup?
Getting those potatoes just right is key to a delicious soup! Follow these simple steps:
- Cut your potatoes into even-sized pieces, around 1-inch cubes, to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Once you add them to the broth, let them come to a boil. This really helps bring out their flavor.
- Simmer until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes—check them with a fork. They’ll break apart if cooked too long!
Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Kielbasa Potato Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to whip up this hearty dish. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Kielbasa:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside for now.
2. Cook the Bacon (Optional):
If you’re using bacon, add it to the same pot and cook until it’s crispy. This adds a lovely extra layer of flavor, but feel free to skip this step if you want a lighter soup! Once crispy, remove it from the pot and keep it with the kielbasa.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
4. Add the Heart of the Soup:
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients! Add your diced potatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Stir everything together to combine.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You can check this by inserting a fork into the potatoes—they should be soft!
6. Cream It Up:
After your potatoes are cooked and tender, stir in the heavy cream. Then, return the kielbasa and bacon to the pot and give it a good stir to combine. Heat everything through for about 5 minutes.
7. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a good taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Everyone’s preference is different, so adjust accordingly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to get some of that delicious kielbasa and potatoes into each serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side, and enjoy every comforting bite!
This creamy, smoky Kielbasa Potato Soup is just what you need on a chilly day—delicious and easy to make!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage for a healthier option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the sausage type used.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, swap the kielbasa for a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor and nutrients!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, Kielbasa Potato Soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave.
What Can I Serve This Soup With?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. It’s hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal, but the bread is perfect for dipping into that creamy goodness!
