This warm Kielbasa Potato Soup is a cozy mix of hearty potatoes and tasty sausage. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something quick and comforting!
With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can whip this up in no time. I love how the flavors come together—a real hug in a bowl. Who can resist that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage is the star of the dish. If you can’t find kielbasa, try using smoked sausage or chorizo for a different flavor. Turkey kielbasa is a lighter option if you’re watching calories.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this soup due to their creaminess. For a healthier choice, you can use sweet potatoes instead. Just know that they’ll add a different flavor!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup a rich texture, but you can substitute it with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. If you’re avoiding dairy, almond milk can also work, but keep an eye on consistency.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth to this soup. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a bit of cumin could work. Adjust the spice for your taste; a sprinkle of cayenne can add a delightful kick!
How Do I Get My Potatoes to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes correctly is key to a perfect soup. You want them tender but not mushy! Here’s how:
- Dice your potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- After adding the broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer to prevent overcooking.
- Check for doneness after about 15 minutes. A fork should easily pierce the potato, but they should hold their shape.
- Remember to mash a few potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture!
Overall, this Kielbasa Potato Soup is simple to make and delightful for a cozy dinner. Enjoy making this comforting dish!
Kielbasa Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying recipe for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Kielbasa:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned on both sides. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables become softened and the onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds wonderful flavors to your soup!
3. Add Potatoes and Spices:
Next, add the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the spices coat the potatoes and veggies evenly.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Mash for Creaminess:
Using a potato masher or a fork, gently mash some of the potatoes in the soup to create a thicker texture, while still leaving some potato chunks intact for that rustic feel!
6. Combine Kielbasa and Cream:
Return the browned kielbasa to the pot. Then stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup gently without bringing it to a boil. Allow it to warm through until creamy and delicious.
7. Final Touches:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, if you’d like. This soup should have a comforting and balanced flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and chives. For a complete meal, enjoy it with slices of crusty bread on the side. Happy eating!
This Kielbasa Potato Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home for its heartiness and flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you can’t find kielbasa, smoked sausage or even chorizo would work well. Just be mindful that choosing a different type of sausage may alter the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it becomes too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve With Kielbasa Potato Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls for dipping. A simple green salad can also complement it nicely for a well-rounded meal! Feel free to add some cheese for extra flavor, too!
