Kielbasa Potato Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor!

This Kielbasa Potato Soup is my ultimate comfort food for cozy days. I love how the smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and aromatic broth come together in one rich, satisfying bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep during colder months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor. The kielbasa adds a delicious smokiness that infuses the broth, while the creamy texture of the potatoes makes every bite comforting. It’s also a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. This soup reheats beautifully, so I can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 pound Kielbasa sausage, sliced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the sliced kielbasa. I cook it until it’s browned on both sides, which releases all that wonderful flavor.
2. Once browned, I remove the kielbasa and set it aside, leaving a bit of the rendered fat in the pot.
3. I add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Next, I add the diced potatoes and thyme, stirring them into the mixture to coat them with flavor.
5. I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. I let it cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Once the potatoes are cooked, I stir in the heavy cream and return the kielbasa to the pot.
7. I let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Finally, I ladle the soup into bowls and top it with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings. It usually takes around 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking, so the total time is about 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a handful of chopped kale or spinach for extra greens. For a lighter version, I substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If I want a thicker soup, I mash a few potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream. I also enjoy swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth when I want a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or milk to bring it back to the right consistency. This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months—I just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes, I can use smoked sausage, andouille, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely. I use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream.

How do I make the soup thicker?

I mash a few of the cooked potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, I love adding carrots, celery, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I prefer Yukon gold or russet potatoes because they cook up soft and creamy.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the kielbasa first, then add all the ingredients (except cream) to the slow cooker. I cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in the cream before serving.

How do I store leftovers safely?

I cool the soup completely before refrigerating it in airtight containers.

Can I freeze Kielbasa Potato Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. I just avoid adding the cream until reheating to keep the texture smooth.

What should I serve with this soup?

I like serving it with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, I can use milk, but the soup will be slightly less rich. I sometimes add a tablespoon of butter to make up for it.

Conclusion

This Kielbasa Potato Soup is one of my favorite comfort meals. I love how it turns simple ingredients into a creamy, flavorful bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, hearty enough to stand alone, and tastes even better the next day. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep, this soup always brings comfort and satisfaction.

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