Oh, fellow food lovers, let me tell you about a culinary discovery that has warmed my kitchen and my heart: German Potato Soup! It’s more than a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a taste of home, and a testament to how simple ingredients can create pure magic. I’ve tinkered and tasted, adjusted and adored, until I landed on the perfect German Potato Soup recipe. I’m beyond excited to share this creamy, dreamy delight with you. It perfectly embodies the Carmen Wausa philosophy of creating approachable and comforting meals that bring joy and connection to your table.
Imagine a cold evening, laughter echoing in the background, and the aroma of simmering goodness filling the air. That’s the feeling this German Potato Soup evokes. It’s a dish that begs to be shared and enjoyed with loved ones. This isn’t some fancy, intimidating recipe; it’s pure, honest comfort food that anyone can make and everyone will adore. Are you ready to turn ordinary ingredients into something truly special? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Creamy German Potato Soup
This German Potato Soup ingredient list is surprisingly simple, but the flavor is anything but basic! Each element plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of comforting tastes. I’ve found that using the right ingredients can truly make all the difference.

- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully. Don’t be shy with it!
- 1 large onion, chopped: The aromatic base that builds the flavor profile of the soup. Yellow or white onions work best.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle earthy note to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a savory depth and aroma to the German Potato Soup.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid foundation of our soup. Use a high-quality broth for the best flavor, or even homemade if you’re feeling ambitious!
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture and subtle sweetness. You can substitute with Russets if needed, but the texture will be slightly different.
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram: This herb adds a distinct German flavor and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the marjoram and adds another layer of savory depth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the German Potato Soup. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half.
- Optional toppings: Fresh parsley, crispy bacon, chives, croutons, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Get creative and customize it to your liking!
The secret to an amazing German Potato Soup is using good quality broth. It’s the backbone of the flavor. I’ve also discovered that using Yukon Gold potatoes makes a difference. They create such a creamy texture that melts in your mouth! You’ll find the best fresh herbs and vegetables for this German Potato Soup at your local farmer’s market. The freshness truly shines through!
Let’s Make This! German Potato Soup Recipe
Alright, fellow food lovers, let’s bring this German Potato Soup to life! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a bowl of pure comfort. Don’t worry if you’re new to soup-making; this recipe is incredibly forgiving.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire soup.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. This is where the magic begins!
- Season and simmer: Stir in the dried marjoram and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Your German Potato Soup should start to smell absolutely divine at this point.
- Puree (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the German Potato Soup right in the pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step entirely. I’ve found that partially pureeing it gives the perfect balance of creamy and chunky.
- Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and heat through gently. Do not boil! Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your opportunity to make sure the flavors are perfectly balanced to your liking.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the German Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh parsley, crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream. This is where your German Potato Soup transforms into something truly special and personalized!
Here’s a helpful tip for German Potato Soup success: Don’t rush the sautéing of the vegetables. Taking the time to soften them properly creates a deeper, richer flavor in the final soup. In my kitchen, this German Potato Soup takes about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect weeknight meal! While your German Potato Soup is simmering, take a moment to enjoy that amazing aroma filling your kitchen. It’s a little preview of the deliciousness to come!
Serving & Presentation Tips
This German Potato Soup is incredibly versatile and can be presented in so many delightful ways. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a more elegant gathering.
For a simple yet elegant presentation, ladle the German Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a swirl of cream. You can also add a few homemade croutons for a bit of texture. People always smile when I serve this German Potato Soup at potlucks. It’s always a hit!
Consider pairing this German Potato Soup with crusty bread for dipping. A side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup. This German Potato Soup creates the sweetest moments at family dinners!
For a seasonal variation, try adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the soup in the fall. In the spring, fresh asparagus or peas would be a lovely addition.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can even repurpose leftover German Potato Soup as a base for a creamy pasta sauce! Get creative and enjoy!
FAQs About German Potato Soup
Here are some frequently asked questions about making German Potato Soup, based on my own experiences and feedback from fellow food lovers. Don’t worry – your German Potato Soup is going to turn out beautifully!
- Can I make this German Potato Soup ahead of time? Absolutely! The flavors actually develop even more when the soup sits overnight. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes? Russet potatoes will work in a pinch, but they may not be as creamy. You can also try using a combination of different potato varieties.
- How do I know when my German Potato Soup is perfectly done? The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. The soup should also have a creamy consistency.
- Can I freeze this German Potato Soup? While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the cream. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.
- What can I add to make it more flavorful? Smoked paprika, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a bay leaf added during simmering can all add depth and complexity to the flavor.
- Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free broth.
- Can I make this soup vegan? Yes! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, use a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew cream or coconut cream), and omit any bacon garnish. This German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) – Elavegan is a great place to get some inspiration for a vegan version!
I’ve seen many home cooks customize this recipe to their liking, and it always brings a smile to my face! For more inspiration, check out this take on German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) – Food and Journeys®!
Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
This German Potato Soup represents everything I love about cooking: simplicity, comfort, and the ability to bring people together. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing, perfect for any occasion. For more comfort food inspiration, check out my Crockpot Potato Soup!
My German Potato Soup Success Tips:
- Don’t skip the sautéing step: It’s crucial for developing the flavor base.
- Use good quality broth: It makes a world of difference!
- Taste and adjust the seasoning: Seasoning is key to a balanced and flavorful soup.
Here are a few German Potato Soup variations I’ve created and loved:
- Smoked Sausage German Potato Soup: Add sliced smoked sausage during the last 15 minutes of simmering for a hearty and smoky twist.
- Cheesy German Potato Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese after adding the cream for a cheesy and comforting variation.
- Spicy German Potato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
I’m confident that you’ll create something beautiful and delicious in your kitchen with this German Potato Soup recipe. If this recipe brings you joy, you’ll love my Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Don’t forget to share your delicious results and tag me in your photos! I can’t wait to see your creations and celebrate your German Potato Soup success! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
And, for another taste of Germany, why not try this delicious German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) – The Daring Gourmet? You’ll find something amazing, just like with my favorite Sweet Potato Rolls!
German Potato Soup
This hearty German Potato Soup is a creamy and comforting dish, perfect for a chilly day. It’s packed with tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and flavorful broth, making it a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook in the bacon grease until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the cubed potatoes, caraway seeds, marjoram, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency (some chunks are nice!). Alternatively, you can carefully transfer some of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the milk and heat gently until warmed through. Do not boil. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with the cooked bacon and fresh parsley.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika when serving.