Kielbasa Potato Soup

Kielbasa Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines savory kielbasa sausage with tender potatoes and fresh vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings, this creamy soup is not only filling but also packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup.
6. Stir in the cooked kielbasa and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. The total preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes, bringing the overall time to around 45 minutes.

Variations

• Swap kielbasa for turkey sausage or a vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.
• Add other vegetables such as corn or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a pot over low heat or microwave until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh kielbasa instead of smoked?
   Yes, fresh kielbasa can be used; just ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, sauté the vegetables and sausage first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. How can I thicken the soup more?
   Use a potato masher to mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.
5. What can I serve with this soup?
   Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
6. Can I freeze the soup?
   Yes, but the texture may change; thaw and reheat gently.
7. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
   They should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
8. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   Substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option.
9. Can I add cheese to the soup?
   Yes, shredded cheddar or Parmesan can be stirred in for extra flavor.
10. How spicy is this soup?
    It’s mild; adjust the smoked paprika and add red pepper flakes for heat.

Conclusion

Kielbasa Potato Soup is a delightful, creamy dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this easy-to-make soup with family and friends!

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