Sometimes all I want is a warm and comforting bowl of soup, and this kielbasa soup never disappoints! It’s highly customizable with different veggies, seasonings, and additions to make it your own. I roast my vegetables and sausage in my air fryer for amazing caramelization and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and comforting. Every bowl is filled with smoky kielbasa, tender vegetables, and a flavorful broth!
- Perfect for chilly days. It’s a cozy meal that will warm you from the inside out
- Easy to make. Simple ingredients come together for a satisfying dinner with minimal effort
- A complete meal. Protein, vegetables, and broth make this a filling meal all on its own (though I do like a side of bread to soak up that broth)!
- Big smoky flavor. Kielbasa adds rich, savory flavor to every spoonful
- Easy to customize. Add your favorite vegetables, beans, potatoes, or pasta to make it your own!
- Great for leftovers. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day
- Budget-friendly. It uses affordable, everyday ingredients to feed the whole family
- Perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week
- Family-friendly. This comforting kielbasa potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!
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Ingredients List
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage (or a similar Polish sausage)
- 2 yellow potatoes (or one Russet; use an extra if they’re small)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- ½ onion (yellow or sweet), diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped cabbage (green or Napa)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste (I use ½ tsp of each, but you can adjust to taste)
- ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock
- 1 cup half and half or milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Instead of (or in addition to) potatoes, you can add some beans (like kidney beans)!
- The cabbage can be swapped for kale or fresh spinach (add in the last few minutes just to wilt it), or omitted if preferred
- Carrots can be swapped for celery (or you can add both; your choice)
- Feel free to add other seasonings you like! Thyme or dill are other good choices, or some red pepper flakes for heat!
- Use your favorite type of stock, or you can substitute beer (which is especially nice if you add cheese to make a beer cheese esque taste)
- I like Dijon for the added depth of flavor (feel free to add more to taste; 1 Tbsp makes it very prominent). You can also use white or apple cider vinegar to add tangy notes
Step By Step Instructions
- Wash your potatoes well, then dice them into approximately ½” cubes. Toss them in the olive oil or butter, then season with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add to your air fryer’s basket and cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10 minutes. Pause halfway, stir, and add the carrots and onions (so they cook for the latter 5 minutes)
- While the veggies cook, slice your kielbasa into ¼” thick slices, and cut the cabbage. Once the potatoes etc have cooked for 10 minutes, stir them, then add in the cabbage and cook an additional 5 minutes
- Stir the veggies again, then top with the kielbasa. Lower the heat to 375°F and cook for 6-8 minutes, until the kielbasa is browned to your liking and the veggies are tender. I use this time to microwave my broth to heat it – 3 ½ minutes is usually good
- Transfer to a large bowl or pot and add the Dijon, stock, and milk or half and half. Stir in the cheese (if using) and stir until it melts and combines. If the soup still isn’t hot enough, you can reheat everything on the stove or in the microwave, but I usually don’t find it necessary. Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Kielbasa soup is hearty, smoky, and comforting, making it a satisfying meal on its own. Pair it with fresh bread, crisp salads, or light sides to round out your dinner!
Bread & Rolls
- Crusty French bread or sourdough: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of broth
- Garlic bread: Buttery, crispy, and full of flavor
- Dinner rolls: Soft rolls are always a comforting choice
- Cheddar biscuits: Their cheesy flavor pairs wonderfully with smoky kielbasa
- Cornbread: A slightly sweet side that complements the savory soup
- Soft pretzel rolls: Pairs extremely well with kielbasa and beer cheese particularly
Fresh Salads
- Garden salad: A light, crisp contrast to the rich soup
- Caesar salad: Crunchy romaine and Parmesan make a classic pairing
- Spinach salad: Fresh greens with apples, cranberries, or walnuts add brightness
- Cucumber salad: Cool and refreshing with a tangy dressing
- Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based slaw provides a nice textural contrast, especially with apples!
Appetizers
- Cheese and crackers: An easy appetizer before the soup!
- Deviled eggs: A simple, protein-packed starter
- Stuffed mushrooms: Earthy flavors complement the smoky kielbasa
- Vegetable tray with ranch dip: A fresh option to balance the meal
- Pretzel bites with cheese sauce: Warm, soft pretzels are always a hit
Desserts
- Apple crisp: Warm fall flavors make a comforting finish
- Peach cobbler: Sweet fruit balances the savory meal. Try my Air Fryer Peach Cobbler!
- Chocolate chip cookies: A simple family favorite
- Bread pudding: Rich, cozy, and perfect after a bowl of soup
- Cherry pie: Tart cherries provide a refreshing contrast
When to Serve
Kielbasa soup is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, meal prep, or casual family gatherings. Pair it with warm bread and a fresh salad for an easy, comforting meal that everyone will look forward to!
Recipe FAQs
What Are Some Tips For Making Kielbasa Soup?
Make sure to brown the kielbasa to develop extra flavor. Use a good-quality broth, and taste the soup before serving so you can adjust the seasoning if needed.
What Kind Of Soup Can You Make With Kielbasa?
Kielbasa is incredibly versatile and works well in vegetable soups, potato soups, bean soups, cabbage soup, creamy soups, and tomato-based broths. Its smoky flavor adds richness to just about any hearty soup recipe.
Can I Make This In The Crockpot?
Yes! Brown the kielbasa first for the best flavor, then add it to your slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding quick-cooking ingredients like dairy or delicate greens near the end.
Can I Make This Soup On The Stove?
Absolutely! Brown the kielbasa in a large pot, soup pot, or Dutch oven, then sauté the vegetables before adding the broth and remaining ingredients. Simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together for an easy one-pot meal.
Tips For the Best Kielbasa Soup
- Some of the smaller veggie dices may fall through the grate in your air fryer. You can just scrape everything out on top, then remove the basket and retrieve the lost bits from below
- I made this recipe in my 8-qt Ninja air fryer. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to prevent overcrowding (or you can adjust the recipe down) or the veggies and sausage may cook unevenly
- Cooking times can vary between air fryers and depending on the size of your specific cuts (especially on the vegetables). Just check them for tenderness and browning, and add extra time in small increments as needed
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to airtight container(s) in the fridge
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days for the best flavor and texture
- Store in individual portions for easy lunches or quick weeknight dinners!
- Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for the soup to expand. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop (best method): Warm the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through
- Air Fryer. Add soup to an oven-safe bowl and air fry at 350 for 5-10 minutes (depending on size of bowl), stirring halfway, until warmed through
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot
- Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened during storage to bring it back to your preferred consistency
- Taste before serving. A pinch of salt, black pepper, or fresh herbs can brighten the flavors after reheating
Final Thoughts
This air fryer kielbasa soup always hits the spot! It’s hearty, comforting, and delicious, and super customizable based on what you have on hand or enjoy. If you’re not a fan of creamy soups, just stick to broth or a tomato base, and it’s still amazing!
I love to roast my vegetables and sausage in the air fryer. It delivers amazing flavor, particularly in the caramelization on the edges of the kielbasa pieces. Then, it’s just a mix with the liquids to turn it into a cohesive and delicious dish!
Katie’s tip
Looking for more unique recipes featuring this savory Polish sausage? Check out all of my Air Fryer Kielbasa Recipes for more inspiration for any meal!
Air Fryer Kielbasa Soup
Servings: 4
The air fryer is perfect for roasting vegetables and getting perfectly caramelized sausage for your kielbasa soup! Then, just mix with the liquids and it’s ready to enjoy!
Equipment
- Spatula (or spoon; for stirring)
Ingredients
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage
- 2 yellow potatoes (or one Russet; use an extra if they’re small)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- ½ medium yellow or sweet onion (diced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup chopped cabbage (green or Napa)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste (I use ½ tsp of each)
- ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock
- 1 cup half and half or milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Wash your potatoes well, then dice them into approximately ½” cubes. Toss them in the olive oil or butter, then season with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add to your air fryer’s basket and cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10 minutes. Pause halfway, stir, and add the carrots and onions (so they cook for the latter 5 minutes)2 yellow potatoes, 1 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter, ½ medium yellow or sweet onion, 2 medium carrots, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp dried parsley, Salt and black pepper to taste
- While the veggies cook, slice your kielbasa into ¼” thick slices, and cut the cabbage. Once the other vegetables have cooked for 10 minutes, stir them, then add in the cabbage and cook an additional 5 minutes1 cup chopped cabbage
- Stir the veggies again, then top with the kielbasa. Lower the heat to 375°F and cook for 6-8 minutes, until the kielbasa is browned to your liking and the veggies are tender. I use this time to microwave my broth to heat it – 3 ½ minutes is usually good14 ounces kielbasa sausage
- Transfer to a large bowl or pot and add the Dijon, stock, and milk or half and half. Stir in the cheese (if using) and stir until it melts and combines. If the soup still isn’t hot enough, you can reheat everything on the stove or in the microwave, but I usually don’t find it necessary. Enjoy!½ Tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, 1 cup half and half or milk, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Notes
- Instead of (or in addition to) potatoes, you can add some kidney beans
- The cabbage can be swapped for kale or spinach (add in the last few minutes just to wilt it), or omitted if preferred
- Carrots can be swapped for celery (or you can add both; your choice)
- Feel free to add other seasonings you like! Thyme is another good choice, or some red pepper flakes for heat!
- Use your favorite type of stock, or you can substitute part for beer (which is especially nice if you add cheese to make a beer cheese esque taste)
- I like Dijon for the added depth of flavor (feel free to add more to taste; 1 Tbsp makes it very prominent). You can also use white or apple cider vinegar to add tangy notes
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any swaps or additions, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Serving: 467g | Calories: 564kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 1529mg | Potassium: 998mg | Fiber: 2.7g | Sugar: 7.2g | Vitamin A: 933.5IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 220mg | Iron: 2.3mg
