If you are craving something warm, comforting, and full of hearty goodness, then this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy and rustic, it brings together tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and fragrant herbs in a rich broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup captures the cozy spirit of traditional German kitchens and makes for a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe delivers maximum flavor and texture. Each essential component plays a part in creating a balanced, colorful, and creamy bowl you’ll want to dive into again and again.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps soften the vegetables for a smooth base.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation when sautéed.
- 3 carrots, diced: Brings natural sweetness, vibrant color, and subtle earthiness.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled & cubed: The star of the soup, delivering creamy texture and heartiness.
- 6 cups vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful, comforting liquid that ties all elements together.
- 1 tsp marjoram: Offers an aromatic hint of herbal brightness traditional to German cuisine.
- 1/2 cup cream: Enriches the soup with silky smoothness and a velvety finish.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh green herb to add freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, stirring occasionally until they soften and the onion turns translucent. This gentle sauté brings out the natural sweetness that forms the foundation of the soup’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Marjoram
Next, toss in the cubed potatoes along with the vegetable broth and marjoram. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This simmering step softens the potatoes thoroughly, allowing the marjoram to infuse its delicate herbal notes throughout the broth.
Step 3: Mash Half the Potatoes and Stir in Cream
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or fork to mash about half of them right in the pot. This creates a wonderful mix of creamy and chunky textures, making your soup heartier and more satisfying. Finally, stir in the cream for a smooth, velvety finish.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
To complete your German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of green freshness and a lovely presentation. Your comforting bowl of soup is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a dollop of sour cream for tanginess or crispy bacon bits for added crunch and smoky flavor. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper makes for a perfect finishing touch that brightens every spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty rye bread or soft pretzel rolls, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A simple green salad adds a fresh contrast, keeping the meal light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. You can also offer toppings like sautéed mushrooms, shredded cheese, or chives on the side to let guests customize their bowls and elevate the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making reheated soup even more delicious.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back its silky consistency as it warms.
FAQs
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth adds a savory depth that complements the potatoes and vegetables beautifully, just be mindful if you want to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Is marjoram essential for this recipe?
Marjoram provides the distinctive herbal flavor traditional to German Potato Soup, but if you don’t have it on hand, oregano or thyme are good substitutes that will still impart a lovely aroma.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based cream or coconut milk instead of dairy cream to enjoy a vegan-friendly version of this comforting soup.
What type of potatoes work best?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold are ideal because they hold their shape while mashing nicely for that perfect mix of chunky and creamy texture.
How thick should the soup be?
It should be creamy and somewhat chunky but not too thick or thin. The partial mashing of potatoes gives it body while letting enough broth remain for a comforting, slurpable consistency.
Final Thoughts
This German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that warms both the heart and the belly. It’s easy to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and creates such a soothing meal perfect for any day you want to feel cozy. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing this soup as much as I do. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become a staple in your kitchen too!
Print
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe
A creamy and comforting traditional German potato soup, Kartoffelsuppe combines tender potatoes and vegetables simmered to perfection, enhanced with aromatic herbs and finished with a touch of cream. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy meals any time of the year.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled & cubed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cream
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tsp marjoram
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and carrots, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: To the pot, add the peeled and cubed potatoes along with the vegetable broth and marjoram. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Mash Potatoes: Remove about half of the potatoes from the pot and mash them roughly. Return the mashed potatoes to the pot to help thicken the soup and provide a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for heartiness.
- Finish Soup: Stir in the cream to add richness and creaminess to the soup. Warm through for a few minutes but do not boil after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a non-vegetarian version, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- You can add diced bacon or sausages for extra flavor and protein.
- Marjoram can be substituted with thyme or oregano if unavailable.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend all the potatoes instead of mashing half.
- For a lighter soup, substitute cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
