This cozy German Potato Soup is creamy and full of flavor, made with fluffy potatoes, tasty herbs, and a hint of smoky bacon. It warms you up from the inside out!
When I make this soup, I can’t help but enjoy the comforting smell filling my kitchen. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ll be in soup heaven! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great for creamy texture. If you need alternatives, consider red potatoes or sweet potatoes, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Onion: A yellow onion works well here for sweetness. Shallots can be used for a milder taste, or you can try leeks for a twist!
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly, but chicken broth adds depth of flavor. Homemade broth is always the best if you have it!
Sausage: For a lighter option, use turkey sausage or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. If you can’t find German sausage, try any smoked sausage you like.
Herbs: Marjoram and thyme are traditional, but Italian seasoning or a mix of dried herbs can also provide a nice flavor.
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy Without Overdoing It?
Making your soup creamy while keeping a bit of texture is key. When the veggies are tender, use a potato masher to lightly mash some potatoes right in the pot. This will thicken the soup without turning it into a puree. If you prefer a smoother soup, an immersion blender can help—just blend partially for that perfect balance!
- Cook your base ingredients like onions and garlic until fragrant first.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the onions before adding the broth.
- As it simmers, don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking on the bottom.
Enjoy your cooking, and remember, taste it often to adjust seasoning as you go!
German Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz German-style smoked sausage (like bratwurst or kielbasa), sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German Potato Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will give your soup a delicious aromatic base!
2. Add Garlic and Veggies:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then stir in the diced carrots and potatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally so everything gets nice and mixed up.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the broth! Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add in the dried marjoram, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Cook the Sausage:
While your soup is simmering, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Brown the sliced sausage for about 5 minutes or until they are nice and caramelized. Once done, set them aside to add later.
5. Mash and Season:
Once your veggies are soft, carefully remove the bay leaf. Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, lightly mash some of the potatoes in the soup to create a creamy texture while keeping some chunks. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve It Up:
It’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, top with the browned sausage slices, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you like, pair it with some crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy your warm, hearty German Potato Soup! It’s perfect for chilly days and is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can increase the flavor by adding more herbs or including extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
