German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)

DifficultyBeginner

Warm up with this hearty and traditional German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe), packed with tender potatoes, vegetables, and savory smoked sausage. A comforting classic that's easy to make and perfect for chilly days!

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German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)
Yields6 Servings
Prep Time15 minsCook Time40 minsTotal Time55 mins
Base
 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
 1 medium onion, diced
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 2 medium carrots, sliced
 1 stick celery, sliced
 1 medium leek, cleaned and sliced
 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
 1 bay leaf
 1 tsp marjoram (optional)
 Salt and pepper, to taste
Add-ins
 7 oz smoked sausage (e.g., kielbasa or bratwurst), sliced (optional)
 ½ cup cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
 Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Sauté the Base Veggies
1

In a large pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened (2–3 minutes).

Add Remaining Vegetables
2

Stir in the carrots, celery, and leeks. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Simmer with Broth
3

Add the diced potatoes, broth, bay leaf, and marjoram. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Add Sausage (Optional)
4

Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. If using cream or milk, add it during this step to create a slightly creamy consistency.

Blend (Optional)
5

For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender (or remove and blend 1–2 cups, then return to the pot).

Season and Serve
6

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley or chives.

Pairing Suggestions
7
  • Fresh rye bread or crusty rolls

  • German pretzels

  • Side of sauerkraut or pickled vegetables

  • A light German beer or apple cider

Ingredients

Base
 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
 1 medium onion, diced
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 2 medium carrots, sliced
 1 stick celery, sliced
 1 medium leek, cleaned and sliced
 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
 1 bay leaf
 1 tsp marjoram (optional)
 Salt and pepper, to taste
Add-ins
 7 oz smoked sausage (e.g., kielbasa or bratwurst), sliced (optional)
 ½ cup cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
 Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)