Name: Kielbasa Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 oz (340 g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into quarter-inch rounds; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g), peeled and diced; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 5 cups (1.2 L) chicken broth; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen huh Same here This kielbasa potato soup hits like a cozy blanket and a high five at the same time It is comfy, flavorful, and ready before you overthink dinner

This recipe feels like a hug from a grandma who also knows how to party in the kitchen You get smoky sausage, creamy broth, tender potatoes, and veggies that pretend to be healthy but mostly just taste great Let us dive in and make dinner magical without the drama

Why This Recipe is Awesome

First, it is idiot proof I promise if you can stir and press a stove knob you are in The kielbasa brings smoky, savory vibes that make the whole pot sing The cream finishes it with a velvety texture that makes people do that content sigh sound

Want convenience What could be easier than one pot and a bit of chopping No fuss, no ten pans, just big comfort in a single bowl Also it adapts well If you want more veggies, more heat, or a cheesy twist you can tweak it in seconds For a slow cooker option check out this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup which gives similar comfort with less babysitting

And hey this soup stores well so you can pretend you have your life together when you pull a bowl out of the fridge tomorrow FYI I always claim leftover soup as a culinary triumph

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz 340 g kielbasa sausage, sliced into quarter inch rounds
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes about 1 and a half lbs 680 g peeled and diced
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
5 cups 1.2 L chicken broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 half teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
3 quarters cup 180 ml heavy cream
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Yes the ingredients read like comfort food in list form You likely already have most of this in your pantry and fridge If not it is a good excuse to visit the grocery store and buy something delicious

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the sausage
In a large pot over medium heat warm the olive oil Add sliced kielbasa and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes stirring occasionally until lightly browned Remove and set aside
Sauté the vegetables
In the same pot add onion carrots and celery Cook for about 4 minutes until softened Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
Add potatoes and seasonings
Add diced potatoes smoked paprika thyme bay leaf salt and pepper Stir to coat vegetables with spices
Simmer the soup
Pour in chicken broth Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes or until potatoes are tender
Finish with cream and kielbasa
Return the sausage to the pot Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3 to 4 more minutes Remove bay leaf
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley Serve hot with crusty bread

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pot when browning the kielbasa. If the slices steam instead of brown you lose that tasty caramelized edge. Brown the kielbasa in a single layer for max flavor.
Tossing in the garlic too early. Burnt garlic tastes like regret. Add garlic toward the end of the veggie saute step.
Skimping on seasoning. Salt brings everything to life. Taste as you go and add pepper too.
Letting the soup boil hard after adding cream. High heat can make cream break and separate. Keep it gentle and steady.
Not removing the bay leaf. That sneaky leaf can keep chewing your soup dry If left in it will make you paranoid

Alternatives & Substitutions

No kielbasa What about smoked sausage or andouille Easy swap Any smoked sausage works and adds a similar vibe If you want meatless try smoked tofu or a handful of chopped mushrooms for smoky umami
Dairy free Swap heavy cream for full fat coconut milk or a thick oat cream for a dairy free finish The flavor changes but the comfort remains
Lighter version Use half and half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream if you want less richness IMO it still tastes like a hug just a bit less slushy
More veg Add frozen peas, chopped kale, or spinach at the end for color and a little vitamin flex You can toss in a cup of corn for sweet pops
Spicier Want heat Throw in a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño with the onions Trust me it wakes the whole pot up

FAQ

Q Do I have to peel the potatoes
A You can skip peeling if you prefer skin in the soup The skins add texture and nutrients Just wash them well and dice as usual

Q Can I make this in the slow cooker
A Yep You can brown the kielbasa and veggies first then dump everything into a crock pot Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours If using cream add it in the last 20 to 30 minutes

Q Can I freeze this soup
A Sure Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much

Q Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika
A You can but you will miss the smoky note Smoked paprika gives that kielbasa a friendlier background If you only have sweet paprika add a tiny pinch of liquid smoke or smoked salt if available

Q How do I make it thicker
A Mash a few potato chunks in the pot with your spoon or blend a cup and stir back in That will thicken it naturally without extra starch

Q Can I use less cream or a substitute
A Use less cream or try half and half or coconut milk for dairy free options It will change the mouthfeel but still be enjoyable

Q Is this kid friendly
A Very much so Kids love the mild smoky sausage and creamy potatoes If you want to tone down seasoning for tiny taste buds do that and add salt at the end for adults

Final Thoughts

You made it to the end and that means you are officially a soup boss This kielbasa potato soup is simple, forgiving, and utterly satisfying It does the heavy lifting while you win at dinner with minimal sweat

Make a double batch, stash some for leftovers, and definitely invite someone over so you can brag about your soup skills You earned it Serve with crusty bread and a napkin because a good slurp deserves dignity

Conclusion

If you want another take on this classic cozy dish try this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe (Cheesy Sausage Soup) for a version with a cheesy twist It is a great companion idea and might inspire your next riff on this bowl of comfort

Kielbasa Potato Soup