Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe – Creamy One-Pot Dinner with Sausage & Vegetables

A steaming bowl of kielbasa potato soup filled with sliced sausage, tender potatoes, carrots, and herbs in a creamy broth, garnished with parsley.
Smoky kielbasa, creamy potatoes, and cozy vibes—this soup is a hug in a bowl! 🥣🌿
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Why Kielbasa Potato Soup Is the Ultimate Comfort Bowl

When the chill sets in and you’re craving something warm and satisfying, Kielbasa Potato Soup is the answer. This hearty bowl brings together smoky slices of kielbasa, creamy chunks of potato, and a rich, cheesy broth that feels like a hug from the inside out. It’s the kind of soup that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your belly with comfort. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner, serving it for a cozy lunch, or ladling it out at a winter gathering, this soup delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to warm you up—body and soul.

What Is Kielbasa Potato Soup?

Kielbasa Potato Soup is a creamy, savory dish that blends smoked kielbasa sausage with tender potatoes, aromatic vegetables, and melted cheese. Rooted in Eastern European culinary traditions and infused with American comfort food vibes, it’s a fusion of bold flavor and cozy texture. The smoky sausage adds depth, while the potatoes and dairy create a velvety base that’s both filling and indulgent. It’s a popular go-to for busy cooks thanks to its simple prep and satisfying results. Whether you’re using turkey kielbasa or the classic smoked version, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for cold-weather meals and comforting leftovers.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into crafting this soul-warming soup:

  • Protein: Kielbasa sausage—smoked or turkey—for that signature savory flavor.
  • Vegetables: Onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes form the hearty base.
  • Broth: Chicken stock or vegetable broth adds depth and body.
  • Creaminess: Milk, heavy cream, or full-fat dairy makes the soup rich and velvety.
  • Cheese: Sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or white cheddar for a melty, tangy finish.
  • Optional Add-ins: Fresh parsley, sliced leeks, red pepper flakes for heat, and flour or cornstarch to thicken if desired.

Tip: Brown the kielbasa first to build a deep, smoky flavor that infuses the entire soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the kielbasa: Slice and cook in olive oil over medium heat until crispy and browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, cook diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add potatoes and broth: Stir in cubed potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
  4. Temper the dairy: In a separate bowl, slowly mix a ladle of hot soup into the cold milk or cream to warm it up. Then stir the tempered dairy into the soup.
  5. Add cheese: Sprinkle in shredded cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Return kielbasa: Add the cooked sausage back into the pot and simmer for 5 more minutes.
  7. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tip: Tempering the dairy prevents curdling and keeps the soup silky smooth.

Taste & Texture Profile

This soup is a flavor-packed comfort classic. The smoky kielbasa delivers bold, savory notes that contrast beautifully with the creamy, cheesy broth. Tender potatoes and vegetables add substance and heartiness, making every spoonful satisfying. The seasoning is balanced, with optional chili flakes offering a gentle kick. The texture is rich and velvety, with bits of crispy sausage adding depth. It’s the kind of soup that makes you slow down, savor, and feel nourished—perfect for cozy nights or a comforting midday meal.

A steaming bowl of kielbasa potato soup filled with sliced sausage, tender potatoes, carrots, and herbs in a creamy broth, garnished with parsley.

Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe – Creamy One-Pot Dinner with Sausage & Vegetables

This Kielbasa Potato Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food—smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a rich, creamy broth. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or shredded cheese for extra warmth and richness. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying, soul-soothing meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal, Soup
Cuisine Eastern European-inspired American comfort food
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Ladle
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb kielbasa sausage (smoked or turkey), sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar or white cheddar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Optional: 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch for thickening, parsley, leeks, thyme

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and sauté until browned and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, cook onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  • Add potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  • In a separate bowl, temper the milk or cream by mixing with a ladle of hot soup. Stir tempered dairy into the pot.
  • Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Return kielbasa to the pot and simmer for 5 more minutes.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley or sour cream before serving.

Notes

  • Brown the sausage well for maximum flavor.
  • Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture.
  • Don’t overcook potatoes—keep them slightly firm if planning to freeze.
  • Stir in cheese off heat to prevent separation.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the soup if it feels too rich.
 
Keyword Comfort Food, creamy sausage soup, fall recipe, Kielbasa soup, one-pot dinner, Potato soup