If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender beans, smoky kielbasa, and a luscious creamy texture, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a satisfying meal with a rustic twist. The blend of aromatic vegetables and spices brings each spoonful to life, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to share again and again with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a special role in building depth and heartiness. From the smoky kielbasa to the creamy beans and fresh herbs, these essentials come together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the kielbasa and vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
- 14 ounces kielbasa, sliced into rounds: The star protein, bringing smoky flavor and savory depth.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity as it softens.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts aroma and a punch of robust flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: For natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Provides a fresh, slightly peppery crunch in the base.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Creates the comforting liquid foundation.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy texture and hearty protein.
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream: Delivers the signature creamy richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds earthy, herbal warmth.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances smoky depth and subtle heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a burst of fresh color and brightness.
How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa rounds and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until they become beautifully browned and caramelized. This process not only adds color but infuses the oil with that signature smoky flavor that will carry through your soup. Once browned, remove the kielbasa with a slotted spoon and set it aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics and Vegetables
Using the same pot with all those delicious browned bits left behind, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your soup and builds layers of taste.
Step 3: Add Broth, Beans, and Spices
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pot, stirring to lift up any remaining caramelized pieces. Bring this to a gentle simmer before stirring in the drained beans, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
To give this soup its silky texture, carefully remove about one cup of the soup and blend it until smooth, either with an immersion blender directly in the pot or by transferring to a blender. Stir this creamy mixture back into the pot, which creates the signature rich, velvety body of the soup that everyone raves about.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Kielbasa
Gently stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream, then return the browned kielbasa slices to the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, giving everything a chance to heat through and meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—it’s that easy to get a perfectly balanced bowl every time!
How to Serve Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of bright green and fresh flavor. You can also add a dash of extra smoked paprika or cracked black pepper if you want to amplify the smokiness and spice. A drizzle of olive oil or a few drops of chili oil can add an exciting twist for adventurous eaters.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls—perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy richness and adds a refreshing balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic stoneware bowls for a cozy, homestyle vibe or go elegant with white porcelain bowls to highlight the creamy texture and vibrant colors. For a fun twist, ladle the soup into bread bowls or top it with a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream to introduce another layer of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy bean soup with kielbasa keeps really well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. Before reheating, give it a good stir to recombine any separated cream for that silky texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling the cream. Microwaving in short bursts with stirring also works well.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the kielbasa with smoked tofu or your favorite plant-based sausage and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to keep it creamy and rich.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
You can, but be sure to soak and cook the dried beans thoroughly before adding them to the soup. This will ensure they’re tender and soften nicely into the creamy texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What other sausages would work in this recipe?
Smoked sausage varieties like andouille, chorizo, or even bratwurst can be fantastic substitutes. Each brings a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
Yes! Swap the half-and-half or heavy cream for whole milk or a lower-fat dairy alternative, and reduce the amount slightly. You can also skip the cream altogether for a broth-based version, though it will lose some creaminess.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe leans more toward mild and smoky with just a touch of warmth from the smoked paprika. If you want heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking or serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a bowl of Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa Recipe that comforts the soul and delights the senses. I can’t recommend it enough whether you’re craving a filling weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your go-to soups that always feels like home.
Print
Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is a hearty and comforting dish that combines smoky sausage with tender beans and vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it features sautéed kielbasa, cannellini beans, and aromatic herbs simmered together and finished with a touch of cream for smoothness.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 14 ounces kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Pantry Items and Spices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and sauté for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove the kielbasa with a slotted spoon and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the drained beans, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to incorporate all the flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors together and soften the beans and vegetables further.
- Blend for Creaminess: Remove about one cup of the soup and blend it using an immersion blender or transfer to a standard blender until smooth. Return the blended portion back into the pot to create a creamy texture without using extra cream alone.
- Finish with Cream and Kielbasa: Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream and add the browned kielbasa back to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, use smoked kielbasa or add a splash of white wine to the pot before simmering.
- Substitute milk for the cream to reduce calories and make a lighter version.
- Try swapping the beans for chickpeas or lentils to vary the texture and flavor.
- This soup freezes well — store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
