This warm and hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup is perfect for chilly days! It’s packed with creamy potatoes and savory sausage, making each spoonful comforting and filling.
I love how quick this soup comes together—just chop, cook, and enjoy! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage gives the soup a rich and savory flavor. If you can’t find kielbasa, smoked sausage or andouille sausage works well as a substitute.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great choices. Their creaminess adds a wonderful texture. Sweet potatoes could be a nice alternative for a twist!
Chicken Broth: I prefer chicken broth for a fuller flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect option for a vegetarian version. You can even use homemade broth if you have it!
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness to the soup. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, try almond milk or coconut cream for a different taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key here for that smoky flavor. If you’re out, regular paprika or cayenne pepper can replace it, but adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes right is essential for a comforting soup. Here are some tips:
- Cut your potatoes into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking. The smaller they are, the faster they’ll cook.
- Always simmer the soup instead of boiling. This gentle heat prevents the potatoes from breaking apart and keeps their shape.
- Test for doneness by poking a potato cube with a fork. If it goes in easily but the potato remains intact, you’re good to go!
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re set for a delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup! Happy cooking!
Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to savor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Kielbasa:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it starts to brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside. This step adds great flavor to your soup!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add your chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. This will help release their natural flavors.
3. Add Garlic:
Add in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
4. Incorporate the Potatoes and Spices:
Next, add the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything together so that the potatoes get coated in the flavorful spices.
5. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Combine Kielbasa and Cream:
Return the browned kielbasa to the pot. Then, stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to heat through for another 5 minutes. Make sure not to let it boil if you want to keep the soup creamy and smooth.
7. Final Touches:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be well balanced!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy hot, ideally paired with some crusty bread for dipping!
There you have it—a hearty and creamy kielbasa potato soup that’s sure to warm you up on any chilly day!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional, smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even andouille can add a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the sausage you choose.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking, and it’ll help thicken the broth nicely!
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the kielbasa in a skillet first, then add it along with all other ingredients (except the cream) to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream just before serving for a rich finish.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
