First Step: PREPARE THE INGREDIENTS

1. Slice the Kielbasa: Begin by slicing the kielbasa sausage into thin rounds, about ¼-inch thick. You can also cut it into half-moons if you prefer smaller pieces. Set the sausage aside for later.
2. Prep the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Peel and slice the carrots, dice the celery, and mince the garlic. Set these ingredients aside, ready for cooking.

Second Step: COOK THE KIELBASA AND VEGETABLES

1. Sauté the Kielbasa: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt.

Third Step: BUILD THE SOUP

1. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts to simmer, lower the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Add the Seasonings: Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Add the Kielbasa: Return the browned kielbasa sausage to the pot, stirring it into the soup. Let the soup continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Fourth Step: ADD CREAM AND FINISH COOKING

1. Stir in the Cream: Once the potatoes are tender and the kielbasa has infused the soup with flavor, pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine. The cream will add richness and a velvety texture to the soup.
2. Simmer and Thicken: Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to fully incorporate and the soup to thicken slightly.
3. Final Adjustments: Taste the soup one last time and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Final Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Serve the Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot with crusty bread or a slice of your favorite bread on the side for dipping. The soup is rich and filling on its own, but the addition of bread makes it even more comforting.