Kielbasa Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines smoky kielbasa sausage with tender potatoes in a creamy broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for chilly days when you need a warm, filling meal that the whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying soup on the table in no time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Kielbasa
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer about half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Step 5: Add the Kielbasa and Cream
- Stir the browned kielbasa back into the pot along with the heavy cream.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well in this recipe as they break down and create a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
- Kielbasa: Browning the kielbasa before adding it to the soup adds extra flavor. Make sure not to skip this step.
- Cream: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add chopped carrots or celery for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Spicy Version: Use spicy kielbasa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Herb Swap: Substitute thyme with rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Kielbasa Potato Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Kielbasa Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Yes, you can use smoked sausage, andouille sausage, or even chorizo for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- Green Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Cheese Topping: Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.
- Crackers: Serve with saltine or oyster crackers for extra texture.
Kielbasa Potato Soup is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving comfort food. With its smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, cozy flavors in every bite!
