This German potato soup is creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. Made with tender potatoes, veggies, and a touch of seasoning, it warms you right up on a chilly day!
Trust me, it’s so good you’ll want seconds! I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It looks pretty and makes the soup even tastier—bonus points for presentation! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Medium potatoes like Yukon Gold are perfect here because they are creamy when cooked. If you need a substitute, try russet potatoes, but they will break down more. Sweet potatoes can offer a twist on flavor, though the soup will be sweeter.
Smoked sausage or bratwurst: This adds heartiness and flavor. Turkey sausage is a lighter alternative, while even veggie sausage can work if you’re looking for a meat-free option.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. If you don’t have carrots, parsnips or even diced bell peppers could add a different depth of flavor.
Broth: I love using homemade chicken broth for extra richness, but vegetable broth is a great choice for a vegetarian version. You can also use water in a pinch, just remember to add more seasoning!
How Can I Achieve the Creamiest Soup Texture?
To make your soup creamy while maintaining some texture, mashing a portion of the potatoes is key. Here’s how to do it:
- After simmering, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash just some of the potatoes in the pot. This leaves hearty chunks while still making the soup creamy.
- Never skip the browning of the sausage! Adding this crispy texture enhances the overall taste and makes the soup even more satisfying.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end of cooking. It really makes a difference!
German Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 6 oz smoked sausage or bratwurst, sliced into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Black pepper or paprika, for garnish
- Bread slices, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This German Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start by Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. This base will add great flavor to your soup!
2. Add the Veggies:
Throw in the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir well to mix everything together, ensuring that the veggies are coated in the buttery goodness.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Pour in the broth of your choice (vegetable or chicken) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are nice and tender.
4. Brown the Sausage:
While the soup is simmering, grab a separate pan. Over medium heat, brown the sausage or bratwurst in a little oil until they are crispy and browned all around. Set them aside for later.
5. Mash for Texture:
Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to create the creamy texture! Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. Leave some chunks if you like a mix of creamy and hearty textures.
6. Season It Up:
If you’re using caraway seeds, sprinkle them in now. Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Stir in the Sausage:
Now, add half of the browned sausage pieces into the soup for that delicious meaty flavor! Stir well.
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining sausage slices. It’s all about that presentation!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and a light dusting of black pepper or paprika for that extra flavor and color. Serve hot with your favorite bread slices on the side for dipping.
This comforting German Potato Soup is perfect for chilly days and makes a hearty meal on its own or alongside rustic bread. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold are ideal for creaminess, russet potatoes work too. If you want to experiment, try using sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is This Soup Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, it freezes well! Just cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add extra veggies, like mushrooms or kale, for additional flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through for even heating!