🍲 Sausage and Potato Soup 🥔

Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup

A cozy and hearty soup featuring smoky kielbasa sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for warming up on a chilly evening, this one-pot recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3–4 medium potatoes)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

For Garnish (Optional):

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kielbasa

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, or until browned and some fat is released.
2. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add a small amount of oil to the pot if needed.
2. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until softened and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

1. Stir in the chicken broth, diced potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Kielbasa and Cream

1. Return the browned kielbasa to the pot.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy texture.
3. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm through and blend the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a hearty meal.
• With Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for added freshness.

Tips for Success

• For a Smokier Flavor: Use smoked kielbasa or add an extra dash of smoked paprika.
• For a Thicker Soup: Mash a few of the cooked potatoes with a fork and stir back into the soup.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap cheddar for Parmesan or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Filling: Perfect for a cozy night in.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the creaminess, spice, or garnish to your taste.