Kielbasa Potato Soup

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Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Meal

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. This Kielbasa Potato Soup combines the rich, smoky flavor of kielbasa with tender potatoes and creamy broth to create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy meals. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Packed with flavors, this soup also offers a variety of customization options, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Kielbasa Potato Soup

To create this flavorful soup, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups kale or spinach (optional, for extra greens)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

These ingredients combine to create a smoky, creamy, and nutritious soup that’s packed with flavor and texture. The kielbasa lends a deep, savory flavor, while the potatoes provide heartiness, and the cream and milk add richness. Whether you choose to add greens like kale or spinach, this soup is fully customizable to suit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Kielbasa Potato Soup

1. Sauté the Kielbasa

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced kielbasa to the pot. Cook the kielbasa for about 4-5 minutes on both sides, or until the slices are browned and slightly crispy. This step brings out the savory, smoky flavors of the kielbasa. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This will allow the garlic to release its aroma and prevent it from burning. The combination of onions and garlic creates a flavorful base for the soup.

3. Cook the Potatoes

Next, add the diced russet potatoes to the pot along with 3 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should become tender during this time, making it easy to blend and achieve a creamy texture.

4. Blend the Soup Base (Optional)

For a thicker, creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup. Use an immersion blender to blend about half of the soup, leaving some chunks of potatoes for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully remove about 2 cups of the soup, blend it in a regular blender, and then return it to the pot. This creates a thick, smooth base while maintaining some rustic chunks for added texture.

5. Add Cream and Seasonings

Once your soup reaches the desired consistency, stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken.

6. Add the Kielbasa and Greens

Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and stir it in, ensuring the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the soup. If you’re using kale or spinach, add it at this point. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender. The greens add a burst of color and nutritional value to the soup, balancing the richness of the cream.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese or fresh parsley. The cheese adds an extra layer of richness and flavor, while the parsley provides a fresh, herbal contrast. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Kielbasa Potato Soup

  • Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add diced carrots or celery to the soup for extra flavor and texture. These vegetables will enhance the soup’s heartiness.
  • Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, use smoked or spicy kielbasa. The added spiciness will give the soup a kick and make it even more flavorful.
  • Thicken it More: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend more of the soup or add additional cornstarch.
  • Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully. It’s a perfect option for meal prep, as the flavors continue to develop and improve over time.

Nutritional Information for Kielbasa Potato Soup

Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving of this Kielbasa Potato Soup (serving size: 1 cup):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg

This soup is not only rich and satisfying but also offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a great choice for a filling meal. If you want to make it lighter, you can use reduced-fat cream and milk or skip the cheese topping.

Conclusion: A Hearty and Smoky Soup Perfect for Any Occasion

This Kielbasa Potato Soup is a true comfort food, combining hearty potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, creamy broth to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to a crowd, this soup is sure to be a hit. With options to customize the recipe by adding more veggies or greens, you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences.

Perfect for meal prep, easy to store, and even better the next day, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Try this recipe today for a bowl of comfort that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.

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