Hearty Kielbasa and Potato Soup (One-Pot Comfort Meal)

This hearty kielbasa and potato soup is my go-to when I want a cozy, filling meal that’s packed with smoky flavor and simple ingredients. With tender chunks of potato, slices of savory kielbasa, and a flavorful broth, this one-pot wonder is the perfect blend of comfort and ease. It’s exactly the kind of soup I crave on chilly nights or when I need something satisfying on the table fast.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this soup brings together big flavor with minimal effort. The kielbasa adds a smoky richness to the broth that makes every spoonful taste like it simmered for hours. The potatoes soak up all that flavor while keeping the soup hearty and grounding. It’s budget-friendly, simple to prepare, and always hits the spot. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Kielbasa sausage (sliced into rounds)
• Potatoes (Yukon gold or russet, diced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Carrots (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamy version)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.

2. I add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, then remove it and set it aside.

3. In the same pot, I sauté chopped onions, carrots, and garlic until softened and fragrant.

4. I add diced potatoes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme.

5. I pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender—about 15–20 minutes.

6. I return the kielbasa to the pot and stir everything together.

7. For a creamy version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.

8. I serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley if I have some on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped cabbage or kale toward the end for extra greens. I’ve also thrown in corn or white beans for added texture and flavor. For a spicier version, I use hot kielbasa or stir in red pepper flakes. If I want a thicker soup, I mash some of the potatoes before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better over time. To reheat, I warm the soup on the stove over medium heat or microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. This soup also freezes well—I let it cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked kielbasa?

Yes, I use fully cooked kielbasa, which just needs to be browned and heated through. It saves time and adds lots of flavor quickly.

What’s the best potato to use?

I usually go with Yukon gold for a creamy texture, but russet potatoes work great if I want something starchier and more filling.

Can I make this soup creamy?

Absolutely. I add heavy cream or milk at the end for a creamier texture, or stir in sour cream for extra richness.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the kielbasa and broth I use are gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the kielbasa and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Conclusion

This kielbasa and potato soup is everything I want in a comfort meal—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. With smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich broth, it’s a one-pot recipe that warms me from the inside out. Whether I’m cooking for the family or prepping a cozy meal for the week, this soup always satisfies.