Kielbasa Soup is a hearty and flavorful recipe combining smoky Polish sausage, tender vegetables, and a savory broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep. Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s an easy and comforting dish that’s ready in no time.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium onion, chopped
13 ounces kielbasa (smoked Polish sausage), sliced into rounds (see note)
2 sticks celery, finely chopped
2 cups green cabbage, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 Russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced (peel if desired)
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Base:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion, kielbasa, celery, and cabbage. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the sausage is lightly browned.
Add Seasonings and Vegetables:
Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Add the diced potatoes and carrots, ensuring they’re well mixed with the other ingredients.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.
Thicken the Soup (Optional):
For a slightly thicker texture, use a potato masher to mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot.
Add Spinach and Season:
Stir in the baby spinach until wilted. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This soup is perfect for chilly days with its satisfying mix of kielbasa, vegetables, and potatoes.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
Packed with Flavor: Smoked paprika and kielbasa add a rich, smoky depth to the dish.

Tips

Use a sharp knife to cut the kielbasa and vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
For extra flavor, sauté the kielbasa until slightly crispy before adding the vegetables.
Adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap kielbasa with smoked turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or frozen peas for more variety.
Broth Alternatives: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable or beef broth for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?
A slice of crusty bread or a side of cornbread pairs perfectly with the hearty soup.

Serving

Serve this kielbasa soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness. Pair with a side salad or toasted bread for a complete meal.

Suggestions

Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy twist.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Include a handful of fresh herbs, like dill or thyme, for an aromatic boost.