Creamy Kielbasa Potato Soup -

Hearty and oh-so-comforting, creamy kielbasa potato soup is your ideal companion on chilly days. Packed with savory kielbasa, wholesome potatoes, and creamy goodness, this one-pot dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re curling up after a long day or preparing a meal for family and friends, this soup is bound to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This creamy kielbasa potato soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will keep you warm and full. The smoky flavor of the kielbasa perfectly blends with the creamy texture of the soup, making every spoonful a true delight. With a variety of vegetables contributing to both the flavor and nutritional value, it’s a wholesome meal that checks all the right boxes. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, so cleanup is a breeze!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Kielbasa Potato Soup

Use High-Quality Kielbasa: The quality of your sausage will greatly affect the flavor of the soup. A well-seasoned kielbasa will enhance the overall taste.
Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure that all ingredients cook uniformly, make sure that your onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes are chopped into similar sizes.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add a bit more shredded cheese or reduce the amount of milk slightly.
Add Fresh Herbs: For an additional layer of flavor, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley during the final garnishing.
Store Leftovers Properly: This soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious creamy kielbasa potato soup:

1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 cup celery, sliced
2 carrots, diced
4 cups chicken stock
1 lb potatoes, diced
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside. This step helps to enhance the flavor by rendering fat from the sausage.

Step 2: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced celery, and diced carrots. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and the onion is translucent. This forms the aromatic base of your soup.

Step 3: Add the chicken stock and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: After the potatoes have softened, pour in the milk, followed by the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Then, add the crispy kielbasa back into the pot, mixing everything well. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld together.

Step 5: Before serving, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish each bowl with the fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of this delightful soup!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sausage instead of kielbasa?

Yes, feel free to substitute with other smoked sausages or andouille sausage for a different flavor profile.

What if I want a vegetarian version?

You can easily make this soup vegetarian by skipping the kielbasa and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add additional vegetables for added flavor.

How can I make this soup lower in calories?

To reduce calories, you can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a light cheese.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

What sides pair well with this soup?

This creamy kielbasa potato soup pairs excellently with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or simple crackers for a complete meal.

Conclusion

In just under an hour, you can prepare a delicious, creamy kielbasa potato soup that is sure to warm you up on the coldest of days. Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also provides ample servings for family dinners or meal prep. So grab your pot and get ready to indulge in this comforting bowl of goodness!