This Creamy Smoked Kielbasa & Potato Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. The rich, velvety broth is infused with the deep smoky essence of kielbasa, complemented by tender potatoes that melt in your mouth. A touch of cheddar cheese and cream creates a luxurious texture, while the kale adds just the right amount of freshness to balance the dish. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is not only hearty but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal or a meal-prep staple, one thing’s for sure it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4–5 medium/small russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (½”–1” pieces)
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 6 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chopped kale
Directions:
- Heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped turkey kielbasa and onions. Sauté until the onions soften and the kielbasa begins to caramelize. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the cubed potatoes along with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a light boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10–15 minutes.
- Lower the heat to a simmer. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash about 75% of the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted.
- Return the sautéed kielbasa and onions to the pot. Add the chopped kale and mix well. Remove the soup from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, reserved kielbasa pieces, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes This Soup So Special?
1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors
One of the best things about this soup is its combination of smoky, creamy, and slightly tangy elements. The kielbasa brings a deep, savory smokiness that infuses the entire broth, making each spoonful packed with bold flavor. The potatoes add a hearty texture, soaking up the broth and helping to create a thick, velvety consistency. A hint of cheddar cheese and heavy cream makes the soup extra indulgent, while a touch of lemon juice balances out the richness.
2. One-Pot Simplicity
This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Everything cooks in a single pot, which means less cleanup and a more straightforward cooking process. The kielbasa is first browned to bring out its smoky depth, then onions and garlic are sautéed to add a fragrant base. After that, the rest of the ingredients come together in stages, developing layers of flavor with each step.
3. Quick & Easy for Any Occasion
Despite its deep, developed flavors, this soup comes together in about 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal. It’s a great dish to prepare in large batches and store for later, as the flavors only improve with time. You can make it ahead and reheat it for a comforting meal throughout the week.
How to Customize Your Kielbasa Potato Soup
One of the best things about this soup is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:
1. Adjust the Texture
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, leave more of the potatoes whole rather than mashing them.
- For an ultra-creamy version, use an immersion blender to purée more of the potatoes.
2. Play with Cheese Choices
- Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor, but you can swap it for gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
- Parmesan cheese can add a nutty depth of flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.
3. Make It Healthier
- Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
- Add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach for more nutrients and a heartier texture.
- Substitute some of the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
4. Try Different Proteins
- Smoked turkey sausage or andouille sausage can replace kielbasa for a slightly different flavor profile.
- For a more indulgent version, add crispy bacon bits or diced ham.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside your Creamy Smoked Kielbasa & Potato Soup:
1. Rustic Bread or Garlic Toast
A thick slice of crusty bread is the perfect companion to this soup. It’s great for dipping and soaking up the rich, cheesy broth. Garlic toast or cheesy breadsticks add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
2. Side Salad
A fresh, crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup. A tangy dressing helps cut through the creaminess, making for a well-rounded meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add an extra serving of veggies while bringing a caramelized, slightly crispy contrast to the soup’s creamy texture.
4. Pickled or Fermented Foods
For a nod to the soup’s Polish-inspired flavors, serve it with pickled cucumbers, sauerkraut, or a side of tangy slaw. The acidity of these foods complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
How to Store & Reheat Kielbasa Potato Soup
This soup is excellent for meal prep and leftovers! The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Storage Tips:
- Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
- On the Stove: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
- In the Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, this Creamy Smoked Kielbasa & Potato Soup is the perfect choice. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:
✔ Bold & Smoky Flavor: The kielbasa infuses every bite with rich, savory goodness.
✔ Creamy & Hearty: The potatoes and cheese create a thick, velvety soup that fills you up.
✔ Simple & Quick: Ready in under 35 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔ One-Pot Wonder: Easy cooking and minimal cleanup!
✔ Customizable & Versatile: Adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a fan of traditional comfort foods or just love a warm, creamy, and smoky soup, this Kielbasa Potato Soup is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for cold weather or whenever you need a cozy meal. Plus, its versatility makes it easy to tweak and adjust based on your preferences.