German Potato Soup 

German Potato Soup, or Kartoffelsuppe, is a warm, filling, and rustic dish that’s been a staple in German households for generations. It combines tender potatoes, savory vegetables, smoky bacon or sausage, and simple seasonings in a creamy broth that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. Perfect for chilly evenings or weekend meals, this traditional soup is as cozy as it is hearty—and easy to make with pantry staples.

For more soul-warming classics, try our rich Chicken Fricassee or the decadent Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce.

Credit: Pinterest

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon butter
  
• 4 slices bacon (chopped) or 6 oz smoked sausage (sliced)
  
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
  
• 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
  
• 2 celery ribs (chopped)
  
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  
• 5 medium Yukon gold or Russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
  
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  
• 1 bay leaf
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for classic flavor)
  

For Creamy Finish:

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram (optional, traditional herb)
  
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)
  

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
  
• Total Time: 45 minutes
  
• Serves: 4–6
  

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
  
• Cutting board and knife
  
• Wooden spoon or ladle
  
• Potato masher or immersion blender (optional)
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  

How to Make German Potato Soup: Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Bacon or Sausage

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped bacon or sliced sausage and cook until browned and crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of fat in the pot for flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth

Add diced potatoes, broth, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are very tender.

4. Mash or Blend (Optional)

For a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes with a masher or blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. Leave some chunks for rustic texture.

5. Stir in Cream and Herbs

Add milk or cream, cooked bacon or sausage, and marjoram (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through and meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley and additional bacon or sausage, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or rye rolls.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
  
• Protein: 14g
  
• Fat: 22g
  
• Carbohydrates: 34g
  
• Fiber: 4g
  
• Sugar: 5g
  
• Sodium: 760mg
  
• Cholesterol: 55mg
  

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon/sausage and use vegetable broth. Add more herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  
• Cream Swap: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
  
• Add Leeks: A common addition in German soups for a slightly sweet, mellow onion flavor.
  
• Thick or Thin: Adjust thickness by blending more potatoes or adding extra broth.
  
• Protein Boost: Stir in diced cooked ham or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
  

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time.

Freezer:

Freeze cooled soup for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing with cream—add it fresh after reheating if possible.

Reheat:

Warm over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German Potato Soup is the kind of recipe that sticks with you. It’s simple, humble, and deeply satisfying. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy broth, and savory meats or vegetables creates a comforting flavor that feels both homey and hearty.

Whether you’re recreating grandma’s soup pot or just looking for something to warm you up on a cold day, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s also budget-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand.

My Final Thoughts

This soup is German comfort food at its best—unfussy, filling, and full of nostalgic warmth. I love that you can tweak it to your preferences, whether you like it chunky or creamy, vegetarian or meaty. And nothing beats dunking a piece of buttered rye bread into a steaming bowl of Kartoffelsuppe.

If you’ve never made homemade potato soup before, this is a great place to start. It’s easy, forgiving, and always delicious.

Credit: Pinterest

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red potatoes?
Yes, but they won’t break down as easily. Yukon gold or Russet work best for a creamy texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you skip the flour (if thickening with a roux) and ensure your broth and sausage are gluten-free.

What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, soft pretzels, or German rye rolls pair beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats very well and often tastes better the next day.

Do I have to blend it?
Not at all! Many traditional versions are chunky and rustic—it’s delicious either way.

And for a totally different flavor-packed comfort dish, don’t miss our Loaded Venison Queso Dip—perfect for game day or cozy nights in.