Name: Traditional German Potato Soup Recipe (Kartoffelsuppe)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 leek, sliced and rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 5 cups (1.2L) vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Traditional German Potato Soup Recipe Recipe

This recipe is rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare with simple ingredients. The combination of creamy potatoes and smoky sausage creates a deep, comforting flavor. It’s also versatile, allowing you to adjust textures from chunky to smooth depending on your preference. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for feeding a family without much fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs (900g) potatoes, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 leek, sliced and rinsed
1 onion, diced
5 cups (1.2L) vegetable or chicken broth
2 tbsp butter
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Chop the veggies by dicing the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion, and slicing the leek.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, leek, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
Add the diced potatoes, broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Remove the bay leaves, then partially blend the soup to achieve a creamy but slightly chunky texture.
Stir in the heavy cream and sliced smoked sausage. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Heat everything through, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people and takes approximately 50 minutes to prepare, including chopping, cooking, and finishing.

Variations

You can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth. For a thicker texture, blend more of the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier version, skip blending entirely. You can also substitute bacon for sausage or add garlic for extra depth of flavor. Some versions include marjoram or thyme for a more herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may slightly change due to the cream.

FAQs

Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, you can skip the cream or replace it with milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

What type of potatoes work best?

Starchy potatoes like russets are ideal for a creamy texture, but waxy potatoes will also work for a firmer bite.

Do I have to blend the soup?

No, blending is optional. It depends on whether you prefer a creamy or chunky consistency.

Can I use a different sausage?

Yes, any smoked sausage or even fresh sausage can be used depending on your taste.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage and broth used are gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

How do I make it thicker?

Blend more of the soup or mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, vegetables like parsnips or turnips can be added for extra flavor.

What herbs go well with this soup?

Parsley, thyme, and marjoram are excellent additions.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but keep in mind the cream may slightly change texture when thawed.

Conclusion

Kartoffelsuppe is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it smooth or chunky, with sausage or without, this traditional German soup is a satisfying meal that’s easy to adapt and perfect for any season.