Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is a delightful dish that warms you up with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of smoky kielbasa and hearty beans creates a unique flavor profile that stands out in any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Rich Flavor: The smokiness of Kielbasa enhances the creamy broth, offering a satisfying taste experience.
  • Versatile Dish: Enjoy this creamy bean soup as an appetizer or main course; it’s perfect for any occasion.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein and fiber from the beans, this soup is both filling and wholesome.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
  • Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while combining flavors effectively.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this delicious soup.

Ingredients

For this Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 rings (13 ounces each) kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch slices
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced into ¼-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 g) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (245 g) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern white beans, rinsed and drained

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa

To start, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot:
1. Add the sliced kielbasa.
2. Cook until browned on both sides, about 7-9 minutes.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside on a plate to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot:
1. Melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until onions become translucent and carrots soften.

Step 3: Thicken the Base

  1. Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  3. Continue cooking for another minute to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 4: Create the Broth

  1. Pour in chicken broth, whole milk, and Worcestershire sauce.
  2. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  3. Bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned kielbasa back into the pot along with:
1. The rinsed Great Northern white beans.
2. Stir gently until everything is well mixed.

Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened

Reduce heat to medium-low:
1. Allow soup to simmer while stirring occasionally until thickened—approximately 15-20 minutes.

This Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa will soon become a favorite in your home! Enjoy it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

How to Serve Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Serving Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enhance this comforting dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

  • Sourdough Loaf: A tangy sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
  • Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup’s richness.

Add Fresh Greens

  • Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy texture.
  • Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach can be a nutritious topping for each bowl.

Top with Garnishes

  • Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Croutons: Crispy croutons add texture and make each bite enjoyable.

Serve in Bread Bowls

  • Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread to serve your soup in for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

To ensure your Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

  • Bold Flavor Base: Start by sautéing the kielbasa until browned for enhanced smokiness.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for better flavor and texture in your soup.
  • Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  • Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference.
  • Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer slowly; this helps meld all the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

  1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and flavorful, these are perfect for dipping into your soup.
  2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
  3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your soup.
  4. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
  5. Cheese Quesadillas: Crunchy quesadillas filled with cheese make a great side dish for dipping.
  6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your dish.

  • Overcooking the Kielbasa: If you cook the kielbasa too long, it may become tough. Aim to brown it for just 7-9 minutes before removing it from the pot.
  • Skipping the Flour: Neglecting to sprinkle flour over the vegetables can lead to a soupy texture. Always add and stir the flour before adding liquids to help thicken your soup.
  • Not Rinsing the Beans: Failing to rinse the canned beans can make your soup overly salty. Always rinse and drain them thoroughly for the best flavor.
  • Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Many overlook tasting and adjusting seasoning. After simmering, taste your soup and feel free to adjust salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.
  • Cooking on High Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature may result in uneven cooking. Keep your heat at medium-low after adding the liquids for a steady simmer.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa in an airtight container.
  • It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

  • Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
  • The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Pour individual servings into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other beans in Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa?

Yes, you can substitute Great Northern beans with other white beans like Cannellini or Navy beans.

What if I want a spicier version of Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for added heat.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa, simply omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize my Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale or even some potatoes for extra heartiness!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This versatile recipe is perfect for customizing according to your taste preferences. Try it out today, and enjoy this comforting meal on chilly evenings!

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Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa

Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming chilly evenings and satisfying family gatherings. This delicious soup features a delightful blend of smoky kielbasa and hearty white beans, creating a rich, creamy texture that is both filling and flavorful. With its easy preparation and versatility as either an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup promises a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 rings (13 ounces each) kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern white beans, rinsed and drained
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add kielbasa slices and brown them for about 7-9 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent and carrots are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables; stir to coat and cook for another minute.
  4. Gradually pour in chicken broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce while stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the kielbasa to the pot along with the rinsed beans. Stir gently until mixed.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For additional protein variety, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey sausage. Adjust seasoning gradually; taste as you go for preferred flavor balance. If desired consistency is too thick, gradually add more broth or milk.

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