If there’s one dish I turn to when the weather demands something both hearty and comforting, it’s this amazing Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe—a glorious blend of smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, sweet carrots, and a silky broth. It’s the kind of soup that turns a simple weeknight dinner into a cozy, feel-good moment. Plus, with its inviting aroma and soul-warming flavors, you’ll find everyone hovering around the kitchen in anticipation. Whether you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or just a bowlful of satisfaction, this recipe never fails to deliver.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients! Each item in this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe lineup is simple yet essential, coming together to create a rich and flavorful soup. Don’t underestimate how the basics—when chosen well—can create something truly special.
- Olive oil: A dash to start things off, giving the kielbasa a beautiful crisp and anchoring all the other flavors.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 ounces, sliced): The starring smoky, savory ingredient—slice it into rounds or half-moons for best texture and bite.
- Yellow onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth, melting into the background to round out the broth.
- Garlic (minced): Two cloves bring warmth and aroma to the base of the soup.
- Diced potatoes (4 cups): Choose waxy or Yukon Gold potatoes; leave the skin on for rustic charm or peel for silky smoothness.
- Carrots (2 medium, sliced): Their natural sweetness and color brighten the entire soup.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The foundation for flavor—use a good-quality broth for richness.
- Whole milk or half-and-half (1 cup): Adds creaminess and body; half-and-half makes it extra luxurious.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): The tangy finish that melds all flavors together and makes every spoonful silky.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings gentle smokiness and that lovely blush color—absolutely worth it!
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Aromatic and woodsy, it ties the savory elements together beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all those cozy flavors to their peak.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A vibrant, fresh garnish to finish—don’t skip this final touch!
How to Make Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
The first step is my favorite: Heat up that olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add your sliced kielbasa. Give it about 4 to 5 minutes to develop those delicious crispy edges and a rich golden color. Not only does this step infuse your soup with smoky depth, but it also makes your kitchen smell irresistible. Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside—you’ll add it back in for a burst of flavor at the end.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pot (don’t clean it—those meat drippings are liquid gold), add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything is softened and fragrant. This builds a savory, aromatic base for the rest of the soup, setting the stage for layers of flavor.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Carrots, & Broth
Next up, stir in the diced potatoes and sliced carrots, making sure they mingle with all those fragrant onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, add your smoked paprika, dried thyme, plus salt and pepper to suit your taste. Crank up the heat to bring it all to a gentle boil. This step is where everything starts to come together—watch as the veggies begin to soften and each spoonful develops personality.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Once your soup is bubbling, dial back the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This gives the potatoes and carrots time to become beautifully tender without falling apart. If you love a thicker texture, use the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the potatoes right in the pot—pure magic!
Step 5: Add Back Kielbasa, Milk, & Sour Cream
Return that glorious kielbasa to the pot, then pour in the milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess) and the sour cream. The trick here is to keep the heat low—just let it gently warm through for 5 to 7 minutes. Take care not to boil once the dairy goes in, or you’ll risk curdling. The result? A luxuriously silky, cohesive soup where every ingredient shines.
Step 6: Taste and Finish
Do a final taste test for seasoning—you might want a pinch more salt or pepper. Ladle your Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe into bowls and top with a flourish of chopped fresh parsley. Each bowl is layered with flavor, color, and heartiness, ready to warm you from the inside out.
How to Serve Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches can really transform your bowl of soup! A little sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you could play around with finely sliced green onions, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even a handful of crunchy croutons. For creaminess, an extra dollop of sour cream right on top makes each serving look as luscious as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe is truly a meal in itself, but if you want to go all out, pair it with a generous hunk of crusty bread. I also love serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the soup. Biscuits, rolls, or even a rustic cheese board can round out the table for a cozy, shareable meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Wow your guests by serving the soup in bread bowls for the ultimate comfort food presentation. Alternatively, ladle your Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe into mini mugs for a fun and interactive appetizer at parties. Don’t forget to add extra garnishes in small bowls on the side so everyone can customize their own creations!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Simply let your soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep for up to four days, and something magical happens as the flavors meld—making it even tastier the next day!
Freezing
This Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe can be frozen, but keep in mind, soups with dairy sometimes change texture after freezing. If you plan ahead, freeze before adding milk and sour cream, then stir in the dairy as you reheat. Either way, let the soup cool completely before freezing in individual portions for up to two months.
Reheating
To reheat, set the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through. Avoid boiling, especially if you’ve added the dairy—gentle heat is key to keeping everything creamy and smooth. Add a splash of broth or milk if it looks extra thick, and freshen with an extra topping of parsley.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the kielbasa for your favorite plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You’ll still get all the smoky, hearty vibes with a vegetarian twist.
What type Soup
Yukon Golds or red potatoes hold their shape beautifully and create a rich, creamy texture. If you use Russets, just be aware they’ll break down more and make the soup extra thick—delicious either way!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in chopped celery, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra color and nutrition. This Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe is wonderfully flexible.
Is this soup gluten free?
It can be! Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to double check your kielbasa and chicken broth labels, just to be certain.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You sure can. Brown the kielbasa and sauté the onions/garlic on the stovetop, then combine everything (except dairy) in your slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in the milk and sour cream at the end, just before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a bowl of goodness that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together, this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe should be at the top of your list. It’s a true family favorite and always gets rave reviews—so don’t hesitate, give it a try and enjoy every savory, satisfying spoonful!
Print
Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with this hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup that combines smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and savory broth for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Kielbasa Potato Soup Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces kielbasa (sliced into rounds or half-moons)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups diced potatoes (peeled if desired)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook kielbasa: Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add vegetables and broth: Add potatoes, carrots, and chicken broth. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Combine ingredients: Return kielbasa to the pot and stir in milk and sour cream. Simmer until warmed through.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture.
- For a spicier version, use hot kielbasa or add red pepper flakes.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
