Looking for the ultimate comfort food in a bowl? This Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup is hearty, rich, and full of smoky, savory flavors. With tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa sausage, and a creamy broth, this soup is perfect for cozy nights or when you need a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious.

This one-pot wonder is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family, combining simple ingredients into a warm and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to cozy up with a bowl of this incredible soup!

Why You’ll Love This Kielbasa and Potato Soup

• Rich and Creamy: The luscious, velvety broth makes this soup irresistibly satisfying.
• Smoky and Savory: The kielbasa adds a depth of smoky flavor that takes this soup to the next level.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with tender potatoes, sausage, and veggies, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in one pot and is ready in under an hour.

What Does Kielbasa and Potato Soup Taste Like?

This soup has a creamy and comforting base with layers of smoky, savory flavors from the kielbasa. The tender potatoes and aromatic vegetables soak up the broth, creating a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. It’s rich without being heavy, and every spoonful is bursting with warmth and heartiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup:

For the Soup:

• Kielbasa sausage (12 oz, sliced into rounds)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 medium, diced)
• Carrots (2 medium, diced)
• Celery (2 stalks, diced)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

• Potatoes (4 medium, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces)
• Chicken broth (6 cups)
• Heavy cream (1 cup, or use half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Flour (2 tablespoons, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes:

• Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded, for topping)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• A large soup pot or Dutch oven (to cook the soup).
• A wooden spoon (for stirring).
• A ladle (for serving).
• A sharp knife and cutting board (for chopping ingredients).

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Use smoked turkey sausage or bacon if you don’t have kielbasa.
• Add Greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra veggie boost.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a richer, cheesier soup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream, and skip the flour for thickening.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps to whip up this hearty, comforting soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa

1. Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy.
2. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside on a plate. Leave the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and ½ cup of the heavy cream until smooth. Pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to thicken the soup.
2. Stir in the remaining heavy cream and the cooked kielbasa. Simmer for 5 minutes to warm through.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika, and serve hot with crusty bread.

What to Serve with Kielbasa and Potato Soup

This hearty soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a side can elevate your dinner:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for a light and flavorful side.
• Biscuits: Warm, buttery biscuits are another excellent option.

Tips for Perfect Kielbasa and Potato Soup

• Brown the Kielbasa: Sautéing the kielbasa first adds a smoky, caramelized flavor that enhances the entire soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Check the potatoes frequently to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork before adding the cream.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The kielbasa adds saltiness, so taste the soup before adding additional salt.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the cream. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of potato?

Yes! Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add all the ingredients (except the flour, cream, and garnishes) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the flour and cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Skip the flour and use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup, a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy broth, this soup is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping it ahead for busy nights, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more hearty soup ideas, check out my chicken and wild rice soup or cheesy broccoli soup—you’ll love them!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 360
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Enjoy every creamy, smoky bite of this Kielbasa and Potato Soup—it’s sure to warm your soul! 😊