Cozy Kielbasa Soup: A One-Pot Comfort Classic
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to bring comfort on a cold day, and this Cozy Kielbasa Soup fits the bill perfectly. Loaded with tender potatoes, juicy kielbasa sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
It’s the ideal one-pot recipe for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, delivering a hearty, satisfying dish that the whole family will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a rustic, flavorful meal on the table in under an hour!
The Story Behind the Dish
Kielbasa soup has its roots in hearty, Eastern European cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into robust, flavorful meals. Growing up, kielbasa was a staple in my home—its smoky, savory flavor brought life to every dish. This soup is a tribute to those cozy family meals, updated with a touch of modern simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein-rich kielbasa and starchy potatoes, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
- Easy and Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 stalk celery, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Kielbasa
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Build the Broth
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Potatoes and Kielbasa
- Add the diced potatoes and browned kielbasa to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for Success
- Golden Kielbasa: Searing the sausage before adding it to the soup enhances its flavor and texture.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of cayenne for extra depth.
- Thicker Soup: Mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a creamier consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this soup with a warm slice of buttered cornbread or a crusty baguette.
- Add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.