There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming scent of a simmering pot of Classic German Potato Soup with Sausage wafting through your kitchen on a chilly afternoon. I remember one particularly brisk day; I came home after a long day at work, craving something comforting yet satisfying. That’s when I decided to whip up this creamy delight that brings together the rich flavors of savory sausage and crispy bacon with the tender goodness of fresh veggies.
This recipe is more than just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Each spoonful is a cozy embrace, ideal for those cold nights when you want a meal that instantly warms your soul. With its simple ingredients and hearty nature, this homemade soup not only promises a delicious dinner but also serves as an extraordinary centerpiece for sharing stories with loved ones. So, let’s dive into this comforting dish that will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage special?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a bowl of this soup on a chilly night. Rich Flavor: The savory sausage and crispy bacon infuse each spoonful with depth and heartiness. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up in no time. Versatile Dish: Adjust ingredients effortlessly—try butternut squash or make it vegetarian! Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s family dinner or a cozy night in, it brings people together. Don’t forget to pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage Ingredients
-
For the Soup Base
• Unsalted Butter – enhances vegetable flavor without added salt and helps with sautéing.
• Yellow Onion – forms the aromatic base; shallots can be used as a substitute.
• Carrots – add natural sweetness and vibrant color; can swap for parsnips for a twist.
• Celery – introduces crunch and depth; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Leek – provides a mild, sweet onion flavor; scallions are a good alternative.
• Garlic – essential for aromatic goodness; use fresh for the best results. -
For the Hearty Ingredients
• Bacon – brings smokiness and richness; double-smoked gives an extra flavor boost.
• German Sausage – offers hearty protein; feel free to substitute with pre-cooked bratwurst.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – creamy texture makes the soup satisfying; Russet potatoes can be used but will alter the texture. -
For the Broth and Seasoning
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – the savory base of the soup; vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian option.
• Bay Leaves – enhance flavor depth; remember to remove them before serving.
• Dried Marjoram – infuses a herby aroma; oregano can also work for flavor.
• Morton Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – adjust to taste for personal preference. -
For Creaminess
• Half & Half – adds that luscious creaminess; can be swapped for heavy cream or omitted for a lighter option. -
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – garnishes and brightens the dish; chives can be used instead or it can be omitted entirely.
This Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage is not just easy to make; it’s a heartfelt dish that will warm you from the inside out.
How to Make Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage
-
Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. This step adds that delicious smokiness. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
-
Brown the Sausage: In the remaining bacon fat, brown the German sausage until it’s nicely cooked. This will infuse your soup with even more flavor. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the unsalted butter in the same pot and add the yellow onion, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté these until softened, around 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t brown too much.
-
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
-
Combine Everything: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the Yukon Gold potatoes, bay leaves, dried marjoram, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the veggies are tender.
-
Stir in Bacon & Sausage: Return the crispy bacon and browned sausage to the pot. Follow by stirring in the half & half, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
-
Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Pair this hearty soup with crispy bread or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and cook the bacon and sausage up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepped ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Just before serving, sauté the vegetables and mix in the chicken broth, potatoes, and seasonings, then add in the precooked meats. This not only saves time but ensures the soup is just as delicious and comforting. If you’re really on a tight schedule, you can also refrigerate the entire soup for up to 3 days—simply reheat it on the stove, adding more half & half if necessary for creaminess.
Expert Tips for Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage
-
Bacon Precision: Ensure your bacon is cooked just right—crispy but not burnt. Keep an eye on the heat for perfect results!
-
Season to Taste: Always taste the soup before serving. Adjust seasoning as flavors can develop differently during cooking.
-
Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to swap ingredients! If you’re missing celery, it can be omitted entirely without impacting the flavor of your classic German potato soup.
-
Extra Creaminess: For an even thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the cream.
-
Proper Storage: Leftovers hold well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors become more harmonious, so always reheat gently to enjoy the best taste!
Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and substitutions that ignite creativity in your kitchen!
-
Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and bacon, replacing them with hearty beans or lentils for protein and using vegetable broth as the base.
-
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar while sautéing the vegetables to enhance the soup’s depth of flavor.
-
Alternative Vegetables: Swap Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes or butternut squash, offering a natural sweetness that complements the rich broth.
-
Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh herbs, such as thyme or dill, to bring a bright, aromatic note that elevates the comfort factor of the soup.
-
Creaminess Upgrade: For a richer texture, substitute half & half with creamy coconut milk, giving the dish a delightful hint of tropical flavor.
-
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for a spicy kick that adds warmth to every spoonful.
-
Cheesy Delight: Grate in some aged cheddar or Gruyère cheese just before serving for an indulgent, melty finish that’s absolutely irresistible.
-
Smooth and Silky: Purée half of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cream for a silkier texture that still has hearty chunks!
Storage Tips for Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully—just reheat before serving for the best taste.
-
Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.
-
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess if needed, enhancing your classic German potato soup experience.
-
Avoid Overheating: When reheating, avoid boiling as it can alter the soup’s creamy texture. You want each bowl to be as comforting as the first!
What to Serve with Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage?
There’s nothing quite like a meal that rounds out the cozy experience of this creamy soup, enhancing every comforting spoonful.
-
Crusty Bread: The perfect companion, this bread soaks up the hearty broth, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
-
Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad brings bright flavors and textures, refreshing your palate amidst the soup’s richness.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky treats introduce a delightful twist, elevating your soup experience to a delicious treat.
-
Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled cucumbers or red onions cuts through the creaminess, offering a vibrant contrast on your plate.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Offering a crispy texture and earthy flavor, these greens complement the soup’s warmth perfectly. Their slight bitterness balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
-
Apple Strudel: For dessert, consider this classic German pastry. Its sweet, spiced filling creates a lovely finish to your meal, hinting at warm family gatherings.
Imagine serving this spread to loved ones, where each creation harmonizes, creating a lovely table filled with warmth and connection.
Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for this soup?
You’ll want to use Yukon Gold potatoes for that creamy texture, but if you’re in a pinch, Russet potatoes can also work. Just keep in mind that Russets may alter the soup’s texture slightly, so if you prefer a more velvety finish, stick with Yukon Gold!
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store your Classic German Potato Soup with Sausage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors improve as they meld together, so it’s worth saving those leftovers for another cozy meal!
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top for the soup to expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add a little low-sodium chicken broth or water while gently reheating on the stove. This will help restore that creamy texture. Stir until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations with this soup?
Definitely! If you’re making this soup for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free sausage and ensuring that your broth is gluten-free. For a vegetarian option, swap the sausage for extra veggies or beans and use vegetable broth instead.
How do I tell if my veggies are ripe and fresh?
Look for vegetables that are vibrant in color without any dark spots or blemishes. For onions, ensure they feel firm and aren’t sprouting. Carrots should be crisp and firm, not bendy, while potatoes should feel starchy and coated in dirt—not sprouted or green. Fresh ingredients elevate the overall taste of your Classic German Potato Soup!
Hearty Classic German Potato Soup With Sausage for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it's crispy. Remove it from the pot and set it aside.
- In the remaining bacon fat, brown the German sausage until it's nicely cooked. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.
- Melt the unsalted butter in the same pot and add the yellow onion, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté until softened, around 4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the Yukon Gold potatoes, bay leaves, dried marjoram, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Return the crispy bacon and browned sausage to the pot. Stir in the half & half, and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.