There’s nothing better than a hot bowl of hearty soup to warm you up when it gets cold outside. This Kielbasa Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that combines the smoky flavor of Polish kielbasa with the creamy richness of potatoes and a touch of indulgence with melted cheese. This soup comes from Eastern European cuisine and is not only delicious but also very filling, making it great for a family dinner or meal prep. Plus, it’s easy to make, even on a busy weeknight!
Why Kielbasa Potato Soup Is Your Perfect Meal
Craving comfort food? Kielbasa Potato Soup is your answer. This hearty soup combines smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and rich flavors that will warm you up instantly.
Why You’ll Love It
- Incredible Flavor: Smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and garlic create a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No fancy cooking skills required!
- Convenient Cooking: It’s a one-pot meal, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying.
- Totally Flexible: Want it spicier? Add some paprika. Vegetarian? Swap the sausage for tofu. Make it your own!
- Great Leftovers: The soup gets even better the next day as flavors blend together.
- Ultimate Comfort: Imagine a warm, creamy bowl of soup paired with crusty bread. Pure happiness in a bowl!
Ingredients for Potato Soup Recipe
- Potatoes (2 lbs): The soup’s foundation. Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy, smooth texture.
- Kielbasa (4 sausages): Provides smoky, savory flavor. Can substitute with turkey sausage or vegetarian alternatives.
- Onion & Celery: Add sweetness, depth, and fresh aromatic notes to the soup.
- Garlic: Brings bold, aromatic flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Thyme: Adds earthy herbal notes that complement the soup’s richness.
- Liquid & Creaminess
- Chicken Stock (4 cups): Creates the soup’s flavorful base. Can use vegetable stock for vegetarian version.
- Cream (½ cup): Adds luxurious smoothness. Dairy-free alternatives like oat or coconut cream work well.
- Cheese (½ cup): Melts into the soup, adding savory depth and extra creaminess.
Finishing Touches
- Green Onions: Garnish that adds fresh, slightly spicy contrast to the rich soup.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, helping release ingredient flavors.
- Salt: Enhances natural flavors, but use sparingly due to existing saltiness in sausage and stock.
Ingredient Notes:
- Substitute kielbasa with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for dietary preferences.
- Use low-sodium stock to control salt levels, especially if kielbasa is particularly salty.
How to Make the Best Kielbasa Potato Soup at Home
1. Sauté the Kielbasa
In a large soup pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it turns golden and a little crispy. Take the kielbasa out of the pot and place it on a plate.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Put the chopped onion and celery in the same pot with the rest of the oil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.
3. Simmer the Soup
Add the cubed potatoes and a pinch of salt after adding the water. Put back into the pot half of the cooked kielbasa. Turn down the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft enough to pierce with a fork.
4. Blend and Finish
Take half of the soup out of the pot and blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Add the cream, grated cheese, and the rest of the kielbasa slices to the blended soup. Simmer on low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is warm all the way through.
5. Serve
Put the soup into bowls and top with grated cheese and cut green onions. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Expert Tips & Variations
- For a Thicker Soup: Add 1 tbsp of flour or cornstarch before adding the stock to thicken the base.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace kielbasa with smoked tofu or roasted mushrooms.
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or skip the cream entirely.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm it up on low heat on the stove or in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring each time.
Freezing: This soup freezes well, but omit the cream before freezing. Add cream after reheating.
More Recipe May You Like :
Print
Comforting Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
This hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food! Made with smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, fresh herbs, and a creamy broth, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a quick weeknight dinner!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 (340g) Polish kielbasa sausages, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold work best)
- 1 litre / 4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 125ml / ½ cup double/heavy cream (or plant-based cream like oat cream)
- 50g / ½ cup Gloucester or cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced
Ingredient Notes:
- Substitute kielbasa with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for dietary preferences.
- Use low-sodium stock to control salt levels, especially if kielbasa is particularly salty.
Instructions
Sauté the Kielbasa
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until golden and slightly crispy. Remove the kielbasa and set it aside on a plate.
Cook the Vegetables
Using the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and celery in the remaining oil for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the stock, add the cubed potatoes, and a pinch of salt. Return half of the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Blend and Finish
Ladle out half of the soup (avoiding the kielbasa) and blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the cream, grated cheese, and the remaining kielbasa slices. Simmer on low until the cheese is melted and the soup is warmed through.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Notes
Potato Choice Matters:
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamier texture and better flavor. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, as they can break down too much.
Control the Salt:
Since kielbasa and stock are naturally salty, be cautious when adding extra salt. Taste as you go for the perfect balance.
Blend for Creaminess:
Blending part of the soup creates a smooth, velvety texture while keeping some chunks for a hearty bite.
Substitutions Are Welcome:
Cream: Use oat or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Try Parmesan, Gruyère, or your favorite melting cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Make It Spicy:
Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like spicy soups.
Serving Suggestion:
Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Extra Garnishes:
Top with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish-Inspired
Kielbasa Potato Soup is the coziest meal ever. It’s great on cold nights or whenever you need a little comfort. Today, make a batch and enjoy every spoonful!
Hi there, I’m Chef Lisa, a culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating delicious dishes that bring people together. With years of experience in the kitchen, I’ve honed my skills and developed a unique style that blends classic techniques with modern flavors. Whether I’m experimenting with new ingredients or putting a twist on a traditional recipe, my goal is always to create something that is both delicious and memorable. I’m excited to share my love of cooking with you and can’t wait to see what we’ll create together!