Creamy Kielbasa Potato Soup (Easy One-Pot Comfort Food)
When the weather cools down or you’re just craving something warm and hearty, this Kielbasa Potato Soup delivers every single time. It’s rich, creamy, smoky, and packed with tender potatoes and savory slices of kielbasa. The best part? It all comes together in one pot with simple, everyday ingredients.
I’ve always believed that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe proves that point beautifully. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 30–40 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that tastes like it simmered all day.
Let’s dive in.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar. The kielbasa adds deep, savory flavor while the potatoes make it hearty and filling.
Here’s why this soup is always on repeat in my kitchen:
- It’s a true one-pot meal.
- Budget-friendly ingredients.
- Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-approved (even picky eaters love it).
- Easily customizable.
If you love cozy, comforting dishes like my This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort or hearty dinners like These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays, this soup is going to fit right into your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
Kielbasa:
Any smoked sausage works. You can even try turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Potatoes:
Russets give you a thicker texture when mashed slightly. Yukon Golds stay creamier and buttery.
Cheese:
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor. Mild cheddar works if you prefer a smoother taste.
Sour Cream Substitute:
Greek yogurt works great if you want a slightly tangier, protein-packed alternative.
Add Veggies:
Want more texture? Toss in carrots, celery, or even a handful of spinach at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Kielbasa
Heat butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until lightly browned. This step builds incredible flavor right from the start.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Potatoes
Add cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and dried herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
4. Thicken the Soup
Lightly mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This thickens the soup while keeping plenty of chunky bites.
5. Make It Creamy
Stir in sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish & Serve
Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip browning the kielbasa. It adds depth and smoky flavor.
- Mash carefully. You want texture—not mashed potatoes.
- Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Adjust thickness. Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it takes it to the next level.
For something Southern-inspired, serve it alongside This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
Want a complete comfort-food spread? Add a side dish like This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
If you’re feeding a crowd and want another cozy favorite, This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast pairs beautifully with a smaller portion of this soup for a hearty dinner night.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
(Nutrition will vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Storage & Leftover Tips
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
You can freeze it, but note that dairy-based soups may slightly change texture. Reheat gently and stir well.
Reheating Tip:
Warm over low heat and add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If hearty comfort meals are your thing, don’t miss:
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
- These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
Final Thoughts
This Kielbasa Potato Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and unforgettable. It’s creamy, smoky, filling, and endlessly satisfying—everything you want in a cozy bowl.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share it with friends, and follow along for more easy, flavor-packed comfort food recipes right here on Chef Maniac.
– Jason Griffith
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