Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that warms the heart, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings) is one of those dishes that feels like a big hug in a bowl. Growing up, this was a staple in my home, especially during chilly evenings when we craved something hearty and delicious. The combination of soft dumplings nestled in creamy soup makes it perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it suitable for even the busiest days. Plus, the flavors are so rich and inviting, every spoonful is simply delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this comforting bowl of soup.
• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.
• Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Great for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what you need to create this tasty dish!

For the Soup Base

• 8 ounces bacon (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chopped onions (1 small)
• 1 cup chopped carrots (2 medium)
• 1/2 cup chopped celery (2 stalks)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 bay leaves
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (2 quarts)
• 2 pounds potatoes (cubed; about 3 large potatoes)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon chopped dill
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg

Variations

This recipe is very flexible! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to get creative with your soup:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using cooked turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the bacon and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a meat-free delight.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick in your soup.

How to Make Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by placing the bacon in a 6-quart stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir frequently until it’s crispy. This step adds great flavor to your soup! Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon once done, letting excess fat drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, discard about half of the bacon grease from the pot but leave around 3 tablespoons. Add butter to this grease and melt it over medium-low heat. Toss in the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until the onions soften—about 3-4 minutes. Then add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This process builds a wonderful base for your soup.

Step 3: Thicken with Flour

Now it’s time to stir in that all-purpose flour! Cook it for about 2 minutes while stirring continuously; this will help thicken our soup later on. After that, add in the chicken broth, bay leaves, and cubed potatoes. Bring everything to a boil over high heat before reducing it to low heat and letting it simmer for about 20-30 minutes until those potatoes become tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings

While your soup is simmering away, let’s make those delicious dumplings! In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and herbs until well combined. In another small bowl, whisk together milk and egg before folding into the dry mixture using a rubber spatula until you have shaggy dough.

Step 5: Knead and Shape

Once combined, turn out your dough onto a floured surface and knead by hand for about 5 minutes—or use an electric mixer with a dough hook on low speed if you prefer. Roll out your dough to about ½ inch thick then slice into squares approximately that same size.

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

As your soup simmers gently away, drop each square of dough into the bubbling pot one at a time—it should be between 180°F to 205°F (82°C to 96°C). Allow them to cook for roughly five minutes or until they rise gracefully to the surface.

Step 7: Finish It Off

Finally, stir in that luscious heavy cream until everything is heated through nicely! Remove bay leaves from your pot before tasting—don’t forget to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed! Serve topped with crispy bacon bits for an extra touch of flavor.

There you have it—your very own bowl of Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)! It’s perfect for sharing with family or savoring all by yourself on those chilly nights when comfort food calls. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)

Making Creamy Knoephla Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match. They brighten the soup and make each bite more aromatic.
• Don’t Overwork the Dumpling Dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients for the dumplings, mix just until combined. Overworking the dough can lead to tough dumplings instead of the soft, pillowy texture we love.
• Adjust Consistency with Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce. For a thinner consistency, simply add extra broth before serving. This allows you to customize it to your liking.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving to check for seasoning. Adding salt and pepper at this stage ensures that every spoonful is full of flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

How to Serve Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)

Presenting your Creamy Knoephla Soup in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh chopped green onions on top for a crunchy texture and a pop of color that brightens up the bowl.
• Crumbled Crackers: Add a sprinkle of crumbled crackers or crispy bread crumbs for an extra layer of crunch that complements the creamy soup.
• Extra Fresh Herbs: A few additional sprigs of fresh herbs on top right before serving not only look beautiful but also intensify the flavors in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. The rustic texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy broth.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts bring additional warmth and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These deliciously cheesy garlic breadsticks make an excellent accompaniment! Their crispy outside and soft inside are perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to become a new favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Creamy Knoephla Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making each bowl even more delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the dumplings separate if possible, as they may become too soft when stored with the soup.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, consider freezing the soup without dumplings and cook them fresh when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If needed, add a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings) that might help you:

Can I use other vegetables in Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I keep my dumplings from getting mushy in Creamy Knoephla Soup?

To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking the dumplings. They should be added to simmering soup towards the end of cooking and removed once they rise to the top.

What can I serve with Creamy Knoephla Soup (Potato and Dumplings)?

This hearty soup pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness!

Can I make Creamy Knoephla Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat. You can also enhance flavor with additional herbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting bowl of Creamy Knoephla Soup! It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little warmth. The combination of soft dumplings and rich flavor makes it truly special. Feel free to share your own twist on this recipe or any memories associated with it—I’d love to hear from you! Enjoy your cooking adventure!