Creamy Bean Soup With Kielbasa

On chilly days when you’re craving something warm, hearty, and comforting, Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is a perfect choice. This rich, flavorful soup combines savory kielbasa, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables in a creamy broth. The perfect balance of textures and flavors makes this dish both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you serve it for a cozy dinner or as part of a larger spread, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish, ensuring that every spoonful is as comforting as the last. Let’s get started!

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Base

1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Used for sautéing the kielbasa and vegetables. It ensures a nice, golden color on the sausage.

2 rings (13 ounces each) kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch slices – The star protein of the dish, adding a deep, savory flavor to the soup.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used to sauté the vegetables, giving the soup a smooth, rich texture.
1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.

2 medium carrots, peeled, diced into ¼-inch pieces (about 1 cup) – Provides sweetness and texture to the soup, balancing the richness of the kielbasa.
2 teaspoons garlic, minced – A must-have for adding savory aroma and flavor.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight kick and balances the flavors.

For the Broth

¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture.
3 cups (720 g) chicken broth – Serves as the savory liquid base, bringing depth and richness.

1 cup (245 g) whole milk – Adds creaminess and smoothness to the soup.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Brings a tangy, umami richness to the broth, complementing the kielbasa and beans.

For the Beans

2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern white beans, rinsed and drained – These beans add a mild, creamy texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

For Garnish

Parsley, for garnish – Adds a pop of fresh color and a hint of herbaceous flavor to the finished soup.

How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Step 1: Browning the Kielbasa

Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced kielbasa in batches, ensuring that each piece is browned evenly on both sides. This should take about 7-9 minutes.
Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside on a plate. The kielbasa will continue to cook later, but for now, we want to let it rest while we work on the soup base.

Tip: Browning the kielbasa helps develop a deep, savory flavor that will infuse the soup later. Don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter.
Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Stir everything together and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots begin to soften. This creates the flavorful vegetable base for your soup.

Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure the vegetables don’t burn, and be sure to scrape up any flavorful bits of kielbasa stuck to the pot. These bits will enhance the flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Thickening the Soup

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook and form a roux that will thicken the soup.
This roux is crucial for achieving the creamy consistency we’re after, so make sure to mix thoroughly and cook for the right amount of time.

Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour, but keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the liquid content to balance the consistency.

Step 4: Adding the Broth and Milk

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Next, add the whole milk and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. The milk helps to create a smooth, creamy texture, while the Worcestershire sauce adds a hint of tangy umami.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Tip: For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the chicken broth with vegetable broth or add a splash of heavy cream instead of the milk.

Step 5: Adding the Kielbasa and Beans

Return the browned kielbasa to the pot. The meat will continue to cook, releasing its savory juices into the broth.
Add the rinsed and drained Great Northern white beans to the soup. These beans will absorb the delicious flavors of the broth and add a creamy texture to the soup.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the beans are heated through and the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Tip: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup before adding the kielbasa and beans, which will make the soup even creamier.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Once the soup has thickened and the kielbasa is fully cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a fresh, herbaceous note.

Tip: Serve the soup with warm crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal. The bread will soak up the creamy broth, making every bite even more satisfying.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Soup

Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen and develop even further.
Freezing: Creamy soups tend to separate when frozen. However, this soup can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Substitutions and Variations

For a Smokier Flavor: Use smoked kielbasa or add a small amount of smoked paprika to the soup for an additional layer of flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, and replace the butter with olive oil to make this soup dairy-free.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the kielbasa with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it for a hearty vegetarian soup. Add extra vegetables or beans to keep it filling.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, feel free to swap kielbasa for any other sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

If you want to use dried beans, you’ll need to soak and cook them before adding them to the soup. This will take longer, but it’s a great option for those who prefer to use dried beans.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the kielbasa and sauté the vegetables on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the liquids and beans, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Conclusion

This Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food. With its savory kielbasa, tender beans, and creamy broth, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up during colder months or any time you’re craving a hearty, nourishing meal. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of warmth today!