If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed bowl of goodness, look no further than this Kielbasa Soup Recipe. This dish brings together the smoky richness of kielbasa sausage with tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and warming spices that blend seamlessly to create a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this soup will quickly become a favorite go-to meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Kielbasa Soup Recipe right is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that each shine in their own way. Every element contributes either bold flavor, satisfying texture, or vibrant color that invites you to dig in from the very first spoonful.
- Butter and olive oil: A classic fat duo that creates a luscious sauté base packed with flavor.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
- Kielbasa (smoked Polish sausage): The star ingredient with smoky, savory richness that defines the soup.
- Celery: For crunch and an aromatic, slightly peppery bite.
- Green cabbage: Brings a mild earthiness and delicate texture that softens beautifully in the broth.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant, robust warmth.
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor profile and adds a subtle heat.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that rounds out the savory notes.
- Russet potatoes: Provide creamy body and substance after simmering.
- Carrots: Sweetness and a pop of color brighten the soup beautifully.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful foundation for the soup’s liquid.
- Water: Balances the broth and keeps the soup light.
- Fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant green and pops of nutrients at the end.
- Salt & pepper: Essential to bring out all the nuances of the ingredients.
How to Make Kielbasa Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Start by melting butter and olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Then add chopped onion, sliced kielbasa, celery, and cabbage. Sauté these ingredients over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until everything is softened and the sausage starts to brown slightly. This step builds the base flavor, where aromas begin to dance and your kitchen will start to smell amazing.
Step 2: Add the Spices and Vegetables
Next, stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. These spices deepen the flavor and bring a slight smoky warmth and herbal complexity. Now toss in the diced potatoes and sliced carrots, which will absorb the tasty flavors as the soup simmers gently.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat to maintain a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife can easily pierce the potatoes and carrots, indicating they have turned delectably tender.
Step 4: Mash for Texture (Optional)
If you want an extra creamy twist without adding cream, take a potato masher and gently mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This simple trick thickens the soup slightly and gives it a wonderful, satisfying body that feels homemade and cozy.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Greens and Seasoning
Finally, stir in the fresh baby spinach which wilts quickly and adds bright bursts of color and nutrition. Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed—this last step is all about perfecting those rich and savory flavors you’ve built.
How to Serve Kielbasa Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your soup with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for an exciting flavor contrast. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes is also amazing if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This Kielbasa Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a simple green salad to keep the meal balanced and fresh. The bread is perfect for soaking up every savory drop.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of olive oil or a drizzle of chili-infused oil on top for an elegant touch. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out bread bowls for an informal but impressive presentation that adds texture and flavor in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Kielbasa Soup Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during busy weekdays.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent the spinach from overcooking and the flavors from dulling. Alternatively, microwave in shorter intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa adds a fantastic smoky flavor, you can substitute with smoked sausage, Polish sausage, or even chorizo for a spicy twist. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked before adding.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or smoked paprika can help retain the smoky, hearty flavor.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Sauté the veggies and sausage first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for convenient hands-off cooking.
What’s the best type of potatoes to use?
Russet potatoes work wonderfully because they soften nicely and help thicken the soup when mashed slightly, but Yukon Golds can also add a buttery flavor and creamier texture.
How spicy is this Kielbasa Soup Recipe?
This soup has a gentle smokiness and warmth but is not spicy hot. You can amp up the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce when serving if you enjoy a kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Kielbasa Soup Recipe that feels both hearty and wholesome while still bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. It’s an absolute joy to make and even more satisfying to devour, especially when you share it with the people you love. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and dive into making this comforting, soul-warming soup—a true winner for any day of the week.
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Kielbasa Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish-American
Description
This hearty Kielbasa Soup is a comforting blend of smoky Polish sausage, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings simmered to perfection. With tender potatoes, crisp celery, cabbage, and vibrant spinach, this soup is the perfect one-pot meal for chilly days, offering warmth and satisfying flavors in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 13 ounces kielbasa (smoked Polish sausage)
- 2 sticks celery, chopped small
- 2 cups green cabbage, chopped small
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Liquids
- 2 Russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced (peel if desired)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Sausage: Melt the butter and olive oil in a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced kielbasa, celery, and cabbage. Sauté these ingredients for about 10 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the sausage releases its smoky flavor.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute or two before adding the vegetables.
- Incorporate Potatoes and Carrots: Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot, stirring to combine evenly with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Optional Thickening: For a slightly thicker texture, use a potato masher directly in the pot to mash some of the potatoes, then stir to evenly distribute the mashed bits throughout the soup.
- Finish with Spinach and Seasoning: Add the fresh baby spinach to the pot, stirring until it wilts. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- The smoked kielbasa adds a distinctive flavor to the soup; feel free to substitute with another smoked sausage if preferred.
- You can peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on offers extra fiber and nutrients.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially the salt as the broth and sausage might already provide sodium.
- The step to mash some potatoes is optional but enhances the soup’s creaminess without adding cream.
