If you’re craving a cozy, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then you absolutely must try this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe. It’s packed with tender potatoes, savory turkey kielbasa, and a touch of kale for a pop of green and nutrition. The creamy cheddar cheese and rich broth create a luscious, comforting texture that makes it feel like an indulgence without being heavy. Trust me, once you taste this soup, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your chilly-weather recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component brings its own unique flair—whether it’s the smoky kielbasa, the creamy cheese, or the fragrant herbs—making this soup flavor-packed and satisfying without any fuss.
- 4–5 medium/small russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Starchy potatoes give body and creaminess when partially mashed.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the kielbasa.
- 2 cups chopped kale: Adds color, nutrition, and a delicate leafy texture.
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa, chopped: The star protein delivering smoky, savory flavor and a satisfying bite.
- 6 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for richness and a cheesy kick.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream: Elevates the soup to creamy perfection without overpowering.
- 32 oz chicken broth: Forms the comforting soup base, bringing warmth and umami.
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used to sauté and build layers of flavor.
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with a fresh note.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds mellow depth without overpowering fresh garlic intensity.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor and warms up the soup’s profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers subtle herbal complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings everything together, enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and sharpness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for a whisper of spicy warmth.
How to Make Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping your russet potatoes into even cubes around half to one inch. This size ensures they cook through without becoming mushy too quickly, providing that perfect tender bite you want in every spoonful.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and turkey kielbasa. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, and the kielbasa begins to caramelize—this usually takes about 5 to 8 minutes. The caramelization brings out those rich, savory notes that define the flavor of this soup.
Step 3: Set Aside Sautéed Ingredients
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the now golden onions and kielbasa from the pot and set them aside in a bowl. Doing this prevents them from overcooking while you turn your attention to the potatoes, and it lets you build flavor layers step by step.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
In the same pot, add the cubed potatoes along with the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings, awakening their flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and the bright splash of lemon juice, then cover the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.
Step 5: Partial Mashing
Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Grab a potato masher, large fork, or immersion blender and mash about 75% of the potatoes right in the pot. Leaving some pieces whole adds delightful texture, creating a rustic, hearty soup that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to look at.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream & Cheese
Next, pour in the heavy cream slowly as you stir, allowing it to blend smoothly into the potatoes and broth. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese while stirring constantly. The cheese melts into the soup, thickening it and infusing every bite with that sharp, tangy, and creamy goodness.
Step 7: Combine and Finalize
Return the reserved caramelized kielbasa and onions to the pot. Add the chopped kale and stir gently until just wilted—this ensures the kale retains a little bite and vibrant green color. Remove the soup pot from the heat, signaling that this gorgeous bowl of comfort is ready for the final touches before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of chopped kale, leftover kielbasa pieces, and a touch more black pepper or red pepper flakes for an optional pop. This finishing touch not only beautifies the dish but also teases your senses for the delicious flavors that await.
How to Serve Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like extra shredded cheddar, kale leaves, and a few reserved pieces of kielbasa add visual appeal and enhance the flavors. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes adds just the right hint of spice to make every spoonful exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery crackers, which provide a perfect vehicle for sopping up the creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also balance the richness and complete the meal nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching and edible presentation. For casual get-togethers, mini soup mugs or shot glasses can be perfect for appetizers. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a garnish can brighten the bowl and add a fragrant finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup even more delicious when reheated.
Freezing
This Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat soup gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use regular pork kielbasa instead of turkey kielbasa?
Absolutely! Pork kielbasa will add a richer, smokier taste to the soup, which can be delightful. The turkey version keeps things lighter but doesn’t skimp on flavor, so either works depending on your preference.
Is it necessary to add kale to the soup?
Nope, the kale is optional. It adds beautiful color, texture, and nutrients but can be omitted or swapped for spinach or swiss chard if you prefer a different leafy green.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help mimic the smoky flavor you lose without the sausage.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy and somewhat thick but still spoonable and not like a stew. The partial mashing of potatoes helps achieve a perfect balance between smooth and chunky.
What can I do to make this soup spicier?
If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce when serving. Fresh chopped jalapeños sautéed with the onions would also bring a fresh, spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
Making this Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day — comforting, satisfying, and rich with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or inviting friends over for soup night, this recipe always impresses without needing complicated steps or ingredients. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes when you want something warm, fulfilling, and delicious.
Print
Kielbasa Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup combines tender diced potatoes, flavorful turkey kielbasa, kale, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, seasoned broth. This comforting soup simmers to perfection, offering a satisfying balance of creamy texture and savory ingredients perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 4–5 medium/small russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (½”–1” pieces)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa, chopped
- 6 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Seasonings
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into ½”–1” cubes. Set them aside until ready to use.
- Sauté the Base: In a large soup pot, heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and turkey kielbasa, sautéing until the onions soften and the kielbasa begins to caramelize, about 5–8 minutes.
- Set Aside Sautéed Ingredients: Using a slotted spoon, remove the caramelized onions and kielbasa from the pot and set them aside in a bowl. This prevents overcooking while you prepare the potatoes.
- Cook the Potatoes: In the same pot, add the cubed potatoes along with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the potatoes in the seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer, covered, for about 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Partial Mashing: Lower the heat to a simmer. Use a potato masher, large fork, or immersion blender to mash about 75% of the potatoes, leaving the rest whole for a hearty texture.
- Incorporate Cream & Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Combine and Finalize: Return the reserved kielbasa and onion mixture to the soup (save a few pieces for garnish if desired). Add the chopped kale and stir until just wilted. Remove the pot from heat.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, chopped kale, reserved kielbasa, and a light sprinkle of additional black pepper or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if available.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the soup’s spiciness.
- Reserve some kale and kielbasa pieces for garnishing to enhance presentation.
- Partial mashing the potatoes creates a creamy texture with a bit of chunkiness for heartiness.
- Use turkey kielbasa as a leaner alternative to traditional pork kielbasa.
