Kielbasa Potato Soup

This hearty kielbasa potato soup combines smoky Polish sausage with tender potatoes in a rich, cheesy broth that warms you from the inside out. The combination of crispy sausage bits and creamy potatoes creates a satisfying texture contrast, while the garlicky, cheese-enriched broth brings everything together in perfect harmony. It's the kind of soup that makes you want to curl up by the fireplace with a big bowlful.

I discovered this soup recipe during a particularly cold winter when I was exploring traditional Polish cooking. The way the cheese melts into the broth, creating silky strings with each spoonful, reminded me of the comfort food my grandmother used to make. Now it's become my go-to recipe when the temperature drops.

Essential Ingredients

• Kielbasa: Choose high-quality smoked Polish sausage. The smokiness is crucial for the soup's signature flavor
• Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Maris Piper hold their shape while cooking, preventing the soup from becoming mushy
• Fresh Garlic: Don't substitute with pre-minced versions; fresh garlic provides the best flavor foundation
• Cheddar Cheese: Grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded for the smoothest melting
• Aromatics (Onion, Carrot, Celery): This trinity of vegetables creates a flavorful base for the broth

Detailed Instructions

Prepare the Sausage:

Cut kielbasa into bite-sized pieces for easy eating

Heat a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat

Brown the sausage until crispy edges form, about 4-5 minutes

Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving the flavorful oils behind

Build the Base:

Add diced onion, carrot, and celery to the sausage drippings

Cook until vegetables soften and onions become translucent

Stir in fresh garlic and red pepper flakes if using

Let aromatics cook until fragrant, about 1 minute

Create the Soup:

Add cubed potatoes and chicken stock

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat

Cover and simmer until potatoes are tender but not falling apart

Gradually incorporate warmed milk to prevent curdling

Finish and Serve:

Return crispy kielbasa to the pot

Add cheese in small handfuls, stirring until completely melted

Simmer until soup reaches desired thickness

Garnish with fresh parsley

Pin it

When I first started making this soup, I learned through trial and error that the quality of kielbasa makes a huge difference. My local Polish deli's smoked kielbasa creates an incredible depth of flavor that transforms this simple soup into something extraordinary.

Perfect Consistency Tips

The key to achieving the ideal texture lies in how you handle the potatoes. I've found that cutting them into uniform, bite-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly while still maintaining their shape. Sometimes, I'll lightly mash a few potato pieces against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the broth without making it too heavy.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Through countless batches, I've discovered this soup actually tastes better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating.

Serving Suggestions

While this soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, I love serving it with crusty rye bread for an authentic Polish touch. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup. For special occasions, I'll even serve it in homemade bread bowls.

Variations To Try

Over the years, I've experimented with different versions of this soup. Adding sauerkraut brings a tangy twist that works surprisingly well. Sometimes I'll toss in some kale or spinach for extra nutrition, or swap the cheddar for smoked gouda to enhance the smoky flavor.

Pin it

After making this soup countless times, I can say with certainty that it's more than just a meal - it's pure comfort in a bowl. Whether I'm serving it on a snowy evening or bringing it to a potluck, this kielbasa potato soup never fails to draw appreciation from family and friends. The way the smoky sausage flavors the entire pot, how the cheese creates those perfect strings as you lift your spoon, and the tender bites of potato make this soup a true winter winner. It's become my reliable comfort food recipe that never disappoints.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this soup ahead?

Yes! Make it up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently. The soup may thicken in the fridge, so add a splash of milk when reheating.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

While possible, cream-based soups can separate when frozen. For best results, enjoy fresh or store in the fridge for 2-3 days.

→ What can I substitute for kielbasa?

Any smoked sausage works well, like Polish sausage, bratwurst, or even chopped ham for a different twist.

→ How do I make it thicker?

Let it simmer longer uncovered, or mash some potato pieces against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the soup.

→ What to serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a simple green salad make perfect accompaniments to this hearty soup.