Polish Potato Soup : 7 Steps to a Hearty, Simple Farmhouse Classic

Posted on June 16, 2025 · [post_author]

two bowls filled with potato soup and sausage

Looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor? This Polish Potato Soup is a creamy, rustic, and comforting dish that brings Old World flavors right to your kitchen. Known for its humble ingredients and rich taste, this soup is ideal for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or a comforting lunch you can prep ahead.

Whether you grew up with Eastern European flavors or you’re simply looking for a new go-to dinner, this farmhouse soup recipe is both nostalgic and nourishing. If you love cooking classy recipes soups that are simple yet full of heart, this is one you’ll make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Polish Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful example of delicious simple dinners—hearty, wholesome, and budget-friendly. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Simple pantry staples – Uses potatoes, onion, celery, carrots, broth, and seasonings.
  • Comforting flavor – Creamy texture with herbs, veggies, and optionally smoky sausage or ham.
  • Family-friendly – Mild and cozy enough for picky eaters.
  • Easy to customize – Make it vegetarian, dairy-free, or with extra protein.
  • Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats beautifully.

It’s the kind of dish that would pair perfectly with a slice of homemade bread or these butter swim biscuits.

Ingredients for Authentic Polish Potato Soup

To make traditional Polish potato soup, you’ll need:

  • 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 medium potatoes)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon marjoram (optional but authentic)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Optional protein: 1/2 cup diced smoked sausage or cooked ham

Optional toppings:

  • Fresh parsley or dill
  • Sour cream dollop
  • Croutons or cheese

For a comforting pairing, try this soup alongside a crisp arugula nectarine salad for a well-rounded meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Polish Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Garlic

Stir in the potatoes and garlic. Cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree half the soup in the pot. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a more rustic style.

Step 5: Stir in Dairy and Seasonings

Lower the heat. Stir in the milk or half-and-half. Add marjoram, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 6: Add Optional Protein

If using ham or sausage, stir it in now and let it heat through.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with chopped parsley, dill, or a dollop of sour cream.

If you’re a fan of hearty soups, don’t miss this crockpot chicken pot pie or cheesy ranch potatoes with sausage.

Tips for Building Farmhouse Soup Flavor

  • Use a mix of butter and broth for a silky base.
  • Add marjoram—a signature herb in many Polish recipes.
  • Smoked sausage or ham adds rich, savory depth.
  • Use a touch of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess.
  • For a lighter soup, use low-sodium broth and low-fat milk.

Want something creamy to enjoy after dinner? Try this peach crisp for dessert.

Simple Polish Recipes: Make It With or Without Pork

While many traditional versions include pork sausage or ham, it’s easy to make this soup vegetarian:

  • Swap meat broth for vegetable broth.
  • Add extra root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
  • Use white beans or lentils for added protein.
  • Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.

This also makes a perfect addition to your collection of simple Polish recipes, whether you’re cooking meatless or meaty meals.

Crockpot Method: Polish Potato Soup the Slow Cooker Way

Prefer a hands-off dinner? Make this soup in the slow cooker!

  1. Add all ingredients except dairy to the slow cooker.
  2. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  3. Blend part of the soup if desired.
  4. Stir in the milk or cream just before serving.

This is a great way to enjoy Polish crockpot recipes without much work—perfect for busy nights.

Recipe Variations: Vegetarian, Creamy, or Rustic

This Polish potato soup is super flexible. Try these variations:

  • Rustic Style: Leave everything chunky and skip the blender.
  • Ultra Creamy: Add 1/4 cup cream cheese at the end.
  • Herb-Forward: Add dill, thyme, or parsley.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or gouda for richness.

Looking for more comfort food ideas? Don’t miss this sweet potato cinnamon roll cake for a cozy dessert!

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Stew Soup Recipes

  • Undercooked potatoes: Simmer until very tender.
  • Adding dairy too early: It may curdle—add at the end.
  • Over-blending: You want texture, not baby food.
  • Not seasoning enough: Salt and herbs matter.
  • Using watery broth: Go for rich, full-bodied stock if possible.

Serving Suggestions for Delicious Simple Dinners

Serve this soup with:

  • Fresh crusty bread or cheese buns
  • A crisp green salad
  • Sliced pickles or sauerkraut for an authentic Polish pairing
  • A side of crab melts for a creative twist

What to Serve with Polish Potato Soup

Complete the meal with:

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Make This Soup

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Immersion blender (optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Storing and Reheating Leftover Polish Potato Soup

Refrigeration:

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing:

  • Let soup cool completely.
  • Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cream-based soups can slightly change texture, but the flavor remains amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polish Potato Soup

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavor improves after a day in the fridge.

Can I freeze Polish potato soup?
Yes, though the texture may change slightly. Freeze before adding dairy for best results.

What if I don’t have marjoram?
You can skip it or substitute with thyme or oregano.

Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely. Unsweetened oat or almond milk work well.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and added ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action: Share This Best Polish Recipe Today

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Polish potato soup. It’s simple, soulful, and deeply satisfying—just what you need on a cold day or when comfort food is calling. Whether you’re craving a classic family meal or just a hearty lunch, this soup deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

If you loved this recipe, please share it, leave a comment, and subscribe to our blog for more flavorful meals like this one. Want more ideas? Visit our dinner collection or explore our tasty appetizers.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Traditional Polish Potato Soup


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Traditional Polish Potato Soup (Zupa Ziemniaczana) is a cozy and comforting farmhouse-style dish made with potatoes, carrots, onion, broth, and herbs. This simple, hearty one-pot recipe is perfect for cold days and delivers rich, homemade flavor with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon marjoram (dried)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup chopped parsley or dill
  • 1 cup diced cooked sausage

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Potatoes: Stir in diced potatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add Broth: Pour in broth and marjoram. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  4. Blend or Leave Chunky: Mash some of the potatoes or blend half of the soup for a creamier texture.
  5. Finish: Stir in sour cream if using. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes for a creamy finish.
  • Don’t add sour cream until the end to avoid curdling.
  • Add sausage at the end to preserve its texture.
  • Freeze soup without dairy and add cream after reheating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Traditional Polish Potato Soup, Polish Soup Recipe, Zupa Ziemniaczana, Farmhouse Soup, Simple Polish Recipes

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating