When you’re craving comfort in a bowl, nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming pot of Kielbasa Potato Soup. This hearty dish brings together smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy, flavorful broth for a soup that satisfies like a full meal. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for chilly days, this is the kind of creamy potato and kielbasa soup that becomes an instant favorite.
Perfect for fans of Polish kielbasa soup, this recipe is loaded with flavor, texture, and all the feel-good vibes of homemade comfort food. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with basic ingredients and a single pot. If you’re a fan of soups that are both rich and rustic, you’ll fall in love with this one.
Looking for more hearty ideas? Try this Pumpkin Chicken Chili or a comforting Vegetable Casserole for your next dinner night.
Table of Contents
What is Kielbasa Potato Soup? A Comforting Polish-Inspired Classic
Kielbasa Potato Soup is a savory dish that brings together thick slices of kielbasa sausage with tender chunks of potato in a creamy, flavorful broth. The word “kielbasa” refers to a type of Polish sausage that’s known for its smoky, garlicky flavor. When combined with potatoes, onions, broth, and a few pantry staples, the result is an incredibly satisfying soup with kielbasa sausage that’s perfect for fall and winter.
This soup is often inspired by traditional Polish cooking, where sausage and potatoes are beloved staples. You can think of it as a modern twist on Polish kielbasa soup with a creamy finish that makes it feel indulgent and nourishing at the same time.
If you enjoy bold, rustic flavors, this one’s for you—especially when paired with a side of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia or Cottage Cheese Flatbread.
Ingredients for Kielbasa and Potato Soup (With Quantities)
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful kielbasa and potato soup:
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 1/2 cups half and half
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley for garnish
These ingredients are flexible. You can swap the half and half for milk or cream, and the sour cream can be replaced with plain Greek yogurt for a slightly lighter option.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Soup With Kielbasa Sausage
Before getting started, make sure you have these tools on hand:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Potato peeler (if not using thin-skinned potatoes)
Want to turn this into a one-pot slow-cooker meal? See the crockpot version below!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Kielbasa and Potato Soup
- Cook the kielbasa
In a large pot, add the sliced kielbasa and cook over medium heat until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful bits in the pot. - Sauté aromatics
Add butter to the pot, then the diced onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. - Create the roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the onions. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. - Add broth and potatoes
Slowly pour in the chicken and beef broth, stirring constantly. Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. - Add creaminess
Lower the heat and stir in half and half, sour cream, and the cooked kielbasa. Simmer for 5–10 minutes without boiling. - Serve and garnish
Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Looking for a fun twist on hearty meals? You’ll love these cheesy Mini Pancake Cereal bites or Pumpkin Twists for a sweet finish.
How to Make a Creamy Potato and Kielbasa Soup Without Heavy Cream
Don’t want to use heavy cream? No problem. This creamy potato and kielbasa soup gets its richness from:
- Sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness.
- Half and half: A lighter option than cream but still rich.
- Flour-based roux: Thickens the soup naturally.
- Yukon Gold potatoes: Their starch contributes to the velvety texture.
For even more creaminess without dairy, blend half the soup using an immersion blender before adding the kielbasa back in.
Crockpot Version: Kielbasa and Potato Soup in the Slow Cooker
Looking for a set-it-and-forget-it version? Here’s how to make kielbasa and potato soup crockpot style:
- Brown the kielbasa in a skillet, then add to the slow cooker.
- Add sautéed onions, garlic, diced potatoes, and both broths.
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in the sour cream and half and half in the last 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
This is a great option for busy days or when you want your house to smell like a cozy kitchen all afternoon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Kielbasa Sausage Soup Recipes
Avoid these common errors when making kielbasa sausage soup recipes:
- Overcooking the potatoes: They can turn mushy and dissolve into the broth.
- Boiling after adding dairy: This can cause curdling. Simmer gently instead.
- Not browning the kielbasa: That golden crust adds key flavor.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the process.
Looking for another flavorful bowl? This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal offers a savory-sweet breakfast-for-dinner idea!
Additions and Variations for Sausage Potato Soup
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some delicious variations:
- Add kale or spinach during the final minutes for extra greens
- Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for cheesy depth
- Swap in smoked turkey sausage or chorizo for a flavor twist
- Add a can of corn or white beans for heartiness
This soup also pairs well with Garlicky Kale and Beans or Creamy Mushroom Pasta for a full, cozy meal.
Serving Suggestions: What to Eat With Kielbasa and Potatoes Soup
Complete your meal with:
- Warm Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Cucumber Shrimp Salad for a refreshing side
- Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites as a light dessert
This soup is rich, so lighter sides work well to balance it.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers of Potato and Kielbasa Soup
This soup stores and reheats beautifully:
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Let cool fully, then freeze for up to 2 months (best without dairy added).
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave in short intervals, stirring often.
Avoid boiling when reheating to keep the texture creamy.
FAQs About Polish Kielbasa Soup and Substitutions
Can I use turkey kielbasa?
Yes! It’s a leaner option that works beautifully.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or skip the roux and thicken with mashed potatoes instead.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free sour cream alternatives.
What kind of potatoes are best?
Yukon Golds for creaminess or russets for a fluffier texture.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Final Thoughts: Cozy Up With This Sausage and Potato Comfort Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of kielbasa and potato soup on a cold day. It’s creamy, savory, comforting, and packed with flavor from the smoky sausage and hearty potatoes. Whether you make it on the stovetop or opt for the sausage potato soup crockpot method, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that stores well, adapts to your pantry, and delivers restaurant-worthy flavor at home. This is the type of recipe that becomes a family tradition.
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PrintUltra-Comforting Kielbasa Potato Soup (Creamy, Hearty & Easy)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Kielbasa Potato Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with smoky sausage and tender potatoes. A hearty one-pot comfort meal perfect for chilly nights, this Polish-inspired creamy potato soup with kielbasa comes together with simple ingredients for a cozy family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3–4 medium russet or gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add kielbasa slices and cook 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, cook diced onion 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle flour over onions and stir 1–2 minutes.
- Add broth and potatoes: Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10–15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Finish soup: Stir in milk and cream, then return kielbasa. Simmer gently 5 minutes. Stir in cheese if using.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls. Garnish with parsley, cheese, or sour cream.
Notes
- For a slow cooker version: cook all ingredients (except milk, cream, cheese) on Low 6–7 hours or High 3–4 hours, then stir in dairy in the last 30 minutes.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for firmer texture or russets for creamier soup.
- Don’t boil after adding cream to avoid curdling.
- For extra creaminess, blend a cup of soup and stir it back in.
- Customize with carrots, celery, spinach, or corn for added veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: One-Pot, Stove-Top, Slow Cooker Option
- Cuisine: Polish-Inspired, Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Kielbasa Potato Soup, Creamy Kielbasa Soup, Sausage Potato Soup, Polish Kielbasa Soup