This Kielbasa Potato Soup is a warm bowl of comfort! It’s packed with tender potatoes, flavorful kielbasa sausage, and creamy goodness. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy this soup is to whip up—just toss everything in and let it simmer. Plus, it gets better the next day, so leftovers are a tasty bonus! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa Sausage: This is the star of the show! If you can’t find kielbasa, any good quality smoked sausage or Polish sausage will work. Turkey sausage is a lighter option if you’re looking to cut back on fat.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a creamy texture. If you’re avoiding carbs, cauliflower can be a great low-carb substitute. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as cauliflower cooks faster!
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor, but you can replace it with turkey bacon for a healthier choice or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version. Smoked paprika can add that smoky essence without the meat.
Heavy Cream & Milk: For a lighter soup, use half-and-half or just stick with milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk adds creaminess, though it will contribute a different flavor.
Jalapeños: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to leave these out. Bell peppers or even celery can add flavor without the spice!
How Do You Make the Soup Creamy Without Curdling?
To keep your soup creamy, warm the milk and heavy cream gently. Always add them at the end of cooking and heat through without boiling, as boiling can cause curdling. Stir continuously while adding to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Cook your roux (flour and fat) for a couple of minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste before adding liquid.
- When adding the broth, whisk it in gradually to keep the mixture smooth.
- Be patient as the potatoes cook; you want them to soften but not disintegrate into the soup!
These tips can help you create a rich and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any cozy occasion. Enjoy every warm spoonful!
Kielbasa Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped (optional for mild heat)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. Total time needed is approximately 45 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove it and set it aside on paper towels to drain any excess fat.
2. Brown the Kielbasa:
Using the bacon fat left in the pot, add the sliced kielbasa rounds. Cook until they are browned on both sides, which should take around 4-5 minutes. After browning, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
If there’s not enough fat in the pot for sautéing, add a bit of butter. Cook the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Create the Roux:
Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux that helps thicken the soup. Keep stirring continuously to prevent it from burning.
5. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful browned bits. This will add a lovely depth of flavor to your soup.
6. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes and jalapeño peppers (if you want some heat). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes.
7. Combine Everything:
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the cooked kielbasa and bacon back into the pot.
8. Add Creaminess:
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while stirring to combine everything. Heat gently until warmed through but avoid boiling to maintain the creaminess.
9. Optional Cheese Addition:
If you like, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted for an extra rich flavor.
10. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting it as you prefer.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped chives or green onions. Enjoy the warmth and comfort with a slice of crusty bread on the side!
This hearty soup features tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and bacon, all enveloped in a creamy broth with a hint of heat from jalapeños, topped with fresh herbs for a delightful finish. Perfect for cozy meals!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is the star, you can use other smoked sausages like Polish sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time if the sausage is pre-cooked.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and sausage entirely. Replace them with smoked tempeh or a plant-based sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more veggies, like carrots and celery, for added flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
What Can I Serve with Kielbasa Potato Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or biscuits for dipping. A simple green salad can also complement the meal nicely, adding freshness to the hearty soup!