Looking for a comforting meal that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any season? Look no further than the traditional German Potato Soup! This classic recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a rich, satisfying dish that will impress both family and friends. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make this beloved dish, along with tips, variations, and ways to serve it for the best results. Read on to master the perfect German Potato Soup recipe!

What is German Potato Soup?
German Potato Soup, or "Kartoffelsuppe," is a hearty and comforting dish popular in various regions of Germany. The soup is made with potatoes as the star ingredient, combined with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and often complemented by sausage for extra flavor, though the dish is perfectly delicious without meat. The soup is thick, creamy, and flavorful, providing both warmth and comfort, especially during colder months. With a blend of earthy ingredients, the soup can be easily customized based on personal preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients List for German Potato Soup
Here’s a list of basic ingredients you will need to create a delicious and authentic German Potato Soup:
- Potatoes (about 1 ½ pounds or 700 grams): The base of the soup, giving it that hearty and creamy texture. You can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best results.
- Carrots (2 large): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Celery stalks (2): Adds freshness and a subtle crunch.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a savory base to the soup.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups): The liquid base of the soup.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): For added creaminess (optional, you can also use milk or leave it out for a lighter version).
- Bay leaves (2): Enhances the flavor with aromatic depth.
- Thyme (1 tsp): A classic herb in German cooking, adding a subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds color and freshness to the final dish.
- Sausage or Wiener (optional, sliced): In some regions, it’s common to add sliced sausage to the soup for extra protein and flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about German Potato Soup is its versatility. If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, or you’re catering to specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, substitute the cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of any broth or sausage you use to avoid any hidden gluten.
- Adding More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like leeks, parsnips, or even green peas for a more complex flavor.
- Different Meats: Instead of sausage, you can try adding ham or smoked pork for a unique twist. You can also keep it meat-free!
- Herbs and Spices: If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika for a little extra kick.
- Creamy or Chunky: You can blend half the soup for a creamier texture while keeping the other half chunky, or blend it completely for a smooth, velvety soup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized chunks. Dice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth: Add the potato chunks, thyme, bay leaves, and broth to the pot. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend or Mash the Soup: After the potatoes have softened, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can simply use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes, leaving plenty of chunks.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream if using. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Meat (Optional): If you're using sausage, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm it through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is cooked, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
How to Cook German Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather Ingredients: Have everything prepped and ready – potatoes, vegetables, broth, and spices.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat some oil and start by sautéing the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until soft and aromatic.
- Cook Potatoes: Add potatoes and broth, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are soft.
- Blend or Mash: Create your preferred texture by blending part or all of the soup.
- Season and Add Cream: Stir in cream and seasoning for the final touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley and serve with fresh bread or rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Be sure to monitor the soup closely. If the potatoes cook too long, they can become mushy.
- Adding Cream Too Early: Add the cream toward the end of the cooking process to avoid curdling.
- Not Blending Enough: If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend a little longer. A half-blended soup strikes a nice balance between creamy and chunky.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Using the Wrong Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets work well for a creamier soup, while waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Garnish: Fresh parsley or a swirl of cream on top can elevate the look of your soup.
- Bread Pairing: Serve the soup with crusty bread or warm pretzels on the side for a true German meal experience.
- Bowls or Mugs: Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a homier feel or in small mugs for a casual, cozy presentation.
How to Serve German Potato Soup
- Portion Size: Serve the soup in individual bowls for a main course or smaller cups as a starter.
- Toppings: Offer extra toppings like grated cheese, sour cream, or chopped chives for guests to customize their bowls.
Presentation Ideas for German Potato Soup
- Rustic: Serve the soup in stoneware bowls with slices of artisan bread.
- Garnished: Sprinkle fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream on top for a pop of color.
- Family-Style: Present the soup in a large pot or Dutch oven at the table, allowing guests to serve themselves.
German Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors only get better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
- Freezing: German Potato Soup freezes well. Just omit the cream before freezing and add it in when reheating.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the soup is too thick, simply add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I freeze German Potato Soup?
Yes, but leave out the cream before freezing. Add it when reheating for the best texture.
What potatoes are best for this soup?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best for this recipe, offering both creaminess and structure.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can either blend more of it or add a slurry of flour or cornstarch and water.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Leeks, parsnips, and even peas are great additions to the soup.
Conclusion
German Potato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you like it chunky or smooth, with or without meat, this recipe can be tailored to fit your tastes. Follow our guide, avoid common mistakes, and serve it with pride. Try making this traditional soup today—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintGerman Potato Soup Recipe
This traditional German Potato Soup recipe is a comforting vegetarian dish made with simple ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and celery. Flavored with marjoram and a rich broth, it's an ideal soup for cozy dinners, especially in the fall and winter. With easy-to-follow steps, it’s a quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in a little oil until soft.
- Add diced potatoes, broth, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend part of the soup with a hand blender to thicken, leaving some chunks.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the thickness by blending more or less of the soup.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream.
- Pair with crusty bread or pretzels for a full meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
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