Name: Kielbasa Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound turkey kielbasa, sliced.; 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced.; 1 medium onion, chopped.; 2 cloves garlic, minced.; 4 cups chicken broth.; 2 cups milk.; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.; 3 tablespoons butter.; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.; Salt and pepper to taste.; 1 tablespoon olive oil.; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley.

Combining the savory flavor of turkey kielbasa with creamy potatoes, onions, garlic, and cheddar cheese, this Kielbasa Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any time of the year. The soup is made by browning the kielbasa and sautéing the onions and garlic in the same pot, then adding potatoes and chicken broth. The soup is thickened with a milk and flour mixture and finished with shredded cheddar cheese. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy a cozy meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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.