Some of my fondest memories from growing up in Crete weren’t just Greek they were about discovering flavors from all over the world. One chilly winter evening, I tried kielbasa potato soup at a friend’s house in the US, and it instantly became a favorite. The smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and creamy broth warmed me from the inside out. It reminded me of my grandmother’s approach to cooking: simple ingredients, full of flavor, and made to bring people together. Every spoonful of this kielbasa potato soup is like a hug in a bowl.
I love making this soup because it’s hearty, easy, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this kielbasa potato soup is a crowd-pleaser. The smoky kielbasa pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes and a touch of herbs, creating a comforting balance that’s hard to resist.
Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is straightforward, yet it feels indulgent and homemade. By the end, you’ll have a bowl of kielbasa potato soup that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for winter nights, cozy gatherings, or anytime you need a meal that feels like home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the kielbasa: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add potatoes and broth: Stir in diced potatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Combine soup and cream: Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or milk. Heat gently for 5 minutes, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the kielbasa potato soup into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of smoked paprika for color. Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.
Serving Suggestions
This kielbasa potato soup pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread 🥖
- Simple green salad 🥗
- Crusty sourdough bread 🍞
- Steamed or roasted vegetables 🥦
It’s a hearty soup that works as a main dish or a starter for dinner parties. Perfect for lunchboxes too, as it reheats beautifully.
Recipe Card 📋
⏱ Time: 45 minutes
🍲 Ingredients: As listed above
👩🍳 Instructions: Follow step-by-step guide
📝 Note: Use smoked or regular kielbasa depending on your taste preference. For a lighter version, substitute cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
🥗 Nutrition: Approx. 350 calories per serving, 18g fat, 25g carbs, 15g protein
Tips for the Perfect Kielbasa Potato Soup
- Cut potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. 🥔
- Don’t overcook the cream; add it at the end for a smooth texture. 🥄
- For extra flavor, sauté kielbasa until crispy before adding to the soup. 🔥
- Leftovers taste even better the next day just reheat gently. 🍲
Conclusion
This kielbasa potato soup is a wonderful mix of smoky, creamy, and hearty flavors, perfect for warming up on cold days. It’s easy to prepare, packed with comforting ingredients, and brings people together around the table. Cooking is about creating memories and sharing stories, and this soup does exactly that. Every spoonful feels like a cozy hug, making it a favorite for families and friends alike.
Bring a taste of comfort and warmth into your home with this kielbasa potato soup, and enjoy the simple joy of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.
Short Version (100 Words)
I’m Marilyn from Crete, and this kielbasa potato soup is my go-to comfort meal. Start by browning sliced kielbasa, then sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Simmer until potatoes are tender. Stir in cream and return kielbasa to the pot. Heat gently, then serve with fresh parsley. This hearty soup is full of smoky flavor, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs. Quick, simple, and satisfying, it’s perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to everyone around the table.