Kielbasa Potato Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy meal. This comforting soup combines the savory taste of turkey kielbasa with creamy potatoes, onions, garlic, and cheddar cheese. It's a satisfying and delicious option for any time of the year.
INGREDIENTS
- Turkey Kielbasa: 1 pound, sliced. Adds a smoky, savory flavor to the soup.
- Potatoes: 5 medium, peeled and diced. Provides a creamy, hearty base.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Serves as the base for the soup.
- Milk: 2 cups. Adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup. Melts into the soup, adding a cheesy flavor.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons. Used for sautéing and adds richness.
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons. Helps thicken the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Enhances and balances the flavors.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Used for browning the kielbasa.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished soup.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Cook Kielbasa: In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook sliced kielbasa until browned. Remove and set aside. This step gives the kielbasa a delicious, crispy texture and enhances its smoky flavor.
- Step 2:
- Sauté Veggies: In the same pot, add butter, onions, and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent. This step softens the vegetables and brings out their natural sweetness.
- Step 3:
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to cook through and absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Step 4:
- Thicken Soup: In a separate bowl, whisk flour into milk until smooth. Gradually add to the pot, stirring constantly until the soup thickens. This step ensures the soup has a creamy consistency.
- Step 5:
- Combine: Return kielbasa to the pot, add shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted. This step brings all the elements of the soup together, creating a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Step 6:
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This step adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it into bowls and serve immediately for a cozy and comforting meal.
- Accompaniments: Pair the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top adds a delightful touch.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.
- Freezing: This soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful Notes
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or spinach to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Different Cheese: While cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Rachael Ray recommends using high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
- Chef Emeril Lagasse suggests adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the soup's depth of flavor.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay advises letting the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.