EASY KIELBASA POTATO SOUP

 

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Kielbasa Potato Soup on a chilly evening. The smoky, savory flavors of kielbasa pair beautifully with tender potatoes, rich cheese, and a velvety broth that brings it all together. Whether you need a quick dinner idea or just want something cozy and satisfying, this soup is bound to become a family favorite.

I love recipes that come together easily with simple ingredients, and this one checks all the boxes! It’s hearty, creamy, packed with flavor, and made in just one pot—minimal effort, maximum comfort. Plus, if you love a little extra cheesiness (who doesn’t?), this soup has plenty of melty cheddar and Parmesan goodness.

So, grab your favorite soup pot, and let’s make this Easy Kielbasa Potato Soup together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy & One-Pot Wonder – Fewer dishes = more time to enjoy your meal.
• Perfectly Creamy & Cheesy – The mix of cheddar and Parmesan adds incredible richness.
• Hearty & Filling – Loaded with potatoes, kielbasa, and veggies, this is a full meal in itself.
• Comfort Food Perfection – Warm, comforting flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the best flavor and texture, we’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – To sauté the kielbasa and veggies.
• 1 pound kielbasa – Sliced into ½-inch pieces; this adds a smoky, savory flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced for extra depth.
• ½ cup yellow onion – Finely diced for that sweet, aromatic base.
• ½ cup carrots – Peeled and finely diced (about 2 large carrots).
• ½ cup celery – Thinly sliced for a slight crunch and extra flavor.
• 4 cups chicken stock – The perfect base for a rich and flavorful soup.
• 1½ pounds potatoes – Cubed; use Russet or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture.
• 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk – For that dreamy, velvety broth.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Because cheesy soups are the best soups.
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, slightly salty depth.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to add a little kick.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish and a pop of freshness.

How to Make Kielbasa Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Kielbasa

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want those pieces to get beautifully browned—this step adds so much flavor!

Once the kielbasa is browned and slightly crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside. Don’t drain the pot! That leftover oil and kielbasa drippings will be perfect for sautéing the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot (with all those delicious bits left from the kielbasa), add the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery. Stir everything together and sauté for about 2 minutes, just until the veggies become fragrant and slightly softened.

Pro Tip: If the bottom of your pot has some browned bits, don’t worry! Those are flavor gold—they will blend into the soup beautifully when we add the stock.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Now, pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

The goal here is to cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender—soft enough to mash slightly but still hold their shape in the soup.

Quick Tip: If you love a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot once they’re soft. This will naturally thicken the broth.

Step 4: Add the Dairy & Cheese

Once the potatoes are cooked through, return the browned kielbasa to the pot.

Slowly stir in 2 cups of heavy cream (or whole milk), then add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Season with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.

Reduce the heat to low and stir everything together, letting the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the broth is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Give the soup a taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Ladle the hot, creamy kielbasa potato soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Idea: This soup is perfect with crusty bread or a warm baguette on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Kielbasa Potato Soup

• Use the Right Potatoes:
  For the best texture, go with Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets break down more, making the soup creamier, while Yukon Golds hold their shape for a chunkier soup.
• Brown the Kielbasa Well:
  Don’t skip the browning step! Those crispy, golden edges add a deep smoky flavor that makes all the difference.

• Thicker or Thinner Soup? Your Call!
  For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cheese.
  For a thinner soup, add more chicken stock or a splash of milk until you reach the desired consistency.

• Cheese Melting Tip:
  To avoid clumps, gradually add the cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly. Also, make sure the heat is on low when adding the cheese—high heat can cause it to become grainy.
• Don’t Skip the Taste Test:
  Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes all the difference!

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

One of the best things about this soup is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to switch things up!

1. Make It Spicy

If you love a little heat, try these additions:

•  Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
• Stir in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while sautéing the veggies.
• Use spicy kielbasa instead of regular for an extra bold flavor.

2. Lighten It Up

Want a lighter version of this soup? Here’s how:

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories.
• Use turkey kielbasa instead of traditiona beef.
•  Add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrients.

3. Make It Even Heartier

If you’re feeding a hungry crowd, bulk up the soup with these ideas:

• Stir in extra potatoes for a thicker, chunkier soup.
• Add cooked, crumbled turkey bacon for extra smokiness.
• Toss in cooked rice or small pasta like elbow macaroni to make it even more filling.

4. Dairy-Free Option 

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this soup!

• Swap heavy cream for unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Use dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.

Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this soup? It tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious (if not better).

How to Store Leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: If freezing, leave out the cheese and cream until reheating. The dairy can separate when frozen. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• On the Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.
• In the Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Pro Tip: If your soup has thickened in the fridge, just add a little more broth or milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Kielbasa Potato Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are some perfect pairings:

• Crusty Bread or Biscuits – Perfect for dipping!
• Green Salad – A light side balances out the richness.
• Garlic Bread – Because you can never have too much comfort food.
• Turkey-Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus – A delicious, savory side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Here’s how:

1.  Brown the kielbasa in a skillet first to enhance the flavor.
2.  Add the kielbasa, garlic, onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, and chicken stock to the slow cooker.
3.  Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the cream and cheeses in the last 30 minutes, letting them melt before serving.

Tip: If the soup is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in. Let it cook for another 15 minutes to thicken.

2. What’s the best type of kielbasa to use?

You can use any type of kielbasa, but these are the best options:

• Smoked Kielbasa – Classic, smoky flavor (highly recommended).
• Turkey Kielbasa – A lighter, leaner option.
• Spicy Kielbasa – Adds a little kick!

No kielbasa? No problem! You can substitute it with andouille sausage, chorizo, or even cooked turkey bacon.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day because the flavors meld together.

If making it ahead:

• Store the soup in the fridge without the cheese and cream (they can separate).
• When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop and stir in the dairy at the end.

4. How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Good news—this soup is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your chicken stock and kielbasa don’t contain any hidden gluten.

If you want to thicken the soup without flour, use:

• Mashed potatoes
• A cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water)

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but with modifications! Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen, so follow these steps:

• Before freezing: Leave out the cheese and cream.
• Storage: Use an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat: Thaw overnight, warm it up slowly on the stovetop, and stir in the dairy before serving.

6. How do I make the soup even cheesier?

If you’re a cheese lover (same here! ), try these tricks:

• Add an extra cup of shredded cheddar.
• Stir in a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Top each bowl with shredded cheese and crumbled turkey bacon before serving.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Soup

Kielbasa Potato Soup is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes—it’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and loaded with smoky sausage and tender potatoes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy meal on a cold day, or just something the whole family will love, this soup is a winner!

Tried it? I’d love to hear what you think! Drop a comment below with your favorite variations, or tag me on social media with a picture of your delicious creation.

More Cozy Soup Recipes to Try:

• Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup – Ultimate comfort in a bowl!
• Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup – A hands-off, cheesy favorite.
• Spicy Sausage and White Bean Soup – For those who love a little heat!

Until next time, happy cooking!

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