If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This Potato Kielbasa Soup will warm your soul with every spoonful. It’s a perfect combination of smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, creating an irresistibly comforting bowl of soup. Whether you're preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, you won’t want to miss out on this recipe. Keep reading to learn how to prepare this incredible soup from start to finish!

What is “Potato Kielbasa Soup”?
Potato Kielbasa Soup is a delicious, rich soup that blends the earthy flavors of potatoes with the savory taste of kielbasa, a type of smoked sausage. This soup is made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, chicken stock, and cheese, which all work together to create a creamy, flavorful dish. The result is a comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for cold nights or as a filling lunch option. The addition of kielbasa gives it a smoky, slightly spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the soft potatoes and creamy broth.
Ingredients List for Potato Kielbasa Soup
For a rich and flavorful Potato Kielbasa Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To sauté the kielbasa and vegetables, adding a slight richness to the soup.
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced: This flavorful smoked sausage brings a savory and smoky taste to the soup.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant and slightly spicy note that complements the kielbasa and potatoes.
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced: Provides a base of sweetness and depth to the broth.
- ½ cup carrots, diced: Adds a slight sweetness and beautiful color to the soup.
- ½ cup celery, sliced: Balances the flavors with its mild, slightly peppery taste.
- 4 cups chicken stock: The foundation of the soup, adding flavor and depth to the broth.
- 1½ pounds potatoes, cubed: The heart of the soup, giving it texture and substance.
- 2 cups heavy cream or milk: For creaminess, making the soup rich and smooth.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the kielbasa.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded: Provides an additional layer of cheesy, savory goodness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To season and enhance the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and balances the richness of the soup.
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped: Fresh and vibrant, parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor at the end.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Potato Kielbasa Soup is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences:
- Kielbasa Substitution: If you can’t find kielbasa or prefer another protein, you can substitute it with smoked sausage, ham, or even bacon for a different smoky flavor.
- Vegan or Vegetarian: Swap the kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, consider using cauliflower instead of potatoes.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like gouda or gruyere, for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: If you like your soup with a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to prepare a delicious Potato Kielbasa Soup:

- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the kielbasa, dicing the vegetables (onions, carrots, and celery), mincing the garlic, and cubing the potatoes.
- Cook the Kielbasa: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s browned on both sides. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the carrots start to soften.
- Add the Chicken Stock and Potatoes: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend for Creaminess (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender. This step is optional and depends on your preference for a chunkier or creamier soup.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the 2 cups of heavy cream (or milk), followed by the cheddar and parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season the Soup: Add ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or adjust to taste. Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
How to Cook Potato Kielbasa Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Potato Kielbasa Soup is straightforward and perfect for all skill levels. By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve a delicious and creamy soup:
- Brown the Kielbasa: Browning the kielbasa in olive oil first enhances its flavor, adding depth to the soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Sautéing garlic, onion, carrots, and celery builds a flavorful base for the soup.
- Cook the Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes in chicken stock until tender is key for a hearty, starchy bite.
- Incorporate Dairy and Cheese: The cream and cheeses add richness and creamy texture, while cheddar gives a sharp bite and parmesan enhances the savory profile.
- Final Touches: Adding parsley right before serving brightens up the flavors with a hint of freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your Potato Kielbasa Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Potatoes should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Skipping the Cheese: The cheeses add a lot of flavor and richness to the soup, so don’t skip them unless absolutely necessary!
- Not Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the stock ensures they release their full flavor into the soup.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A bowl of Potato Kielbasa Soup can be as visually appealing as it is tasty. Here are a few ideas to make your presentation stand out:
- Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the soup for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Cheese Sprinkle: Add a little extra shredded cheddar or parmesan on top for a cheesy, melty finish.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is the perfect complement to soak up every last bit of the soup.
- Bowls or Mugs: Serve the soup in rustic bowls or mugs for a cozy, homey feel.
How to Serve Potato Kielbasa Soup
To serve your Potato Kielbasa Soup, ladle it into individual bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as extra cheese, parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with fresh bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Potato Kielbasa Soup
For a cozy presentation, serve the soup in small bread bowls. You can also place a piece of toasted baguette on top of the soup and sprinkle with extra cheese for a fun twist on traditional serving methods.
Potato Kielbasa Soup Recipe Tips
- Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape well and have a buttery texture, making them perfect for soups.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: The combination of cheddar and parmesan elevates the flavor and creaminess of the soup.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze Potato Kielbasa Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the kielbasa and vegetables first, then add them to the slow cooker along with the potatoes, stock, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and cheeses during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What type of potatoes should I use?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this recipe. Yukon Gold holds its shape better, while Russets will break down more and make the soup creamier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Potato Kielbasa Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its savory kielbasa, tender potatoes, and rich creamy base, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or freezing leftovers for later, this soup is sure to please. Now that you know how to make it, gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintPotato Kielbasa Soup Recipe
This Potato Kielbasa Soup recipe features tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, cheesy broth. A deliciously hearty soup packed with flavor from garlic, carrots, celery, and cheddar cheese, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. The recipe is easy to prepare, with simple ingredients and comforting flavors. Ideal for lovers of kielbasa and potato-based soups, this meal will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- ½ cup carrots, diced
- ½ cup celery, sliced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1½ lbs potatoes, cubed
- 2 cups heavy cream or milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add kielbasa and brown for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock and add cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream (or milk) and cheeses, allowing them to melt and blend into the soup.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1050mg
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