When I think about comfort food, my mind drifts straight to German Dumpling Soup — that savory aroma of simmering broth, soft dumplings filled with seasoned beef, and the kind of heartiness that sticks with you. It’s rustic, simple, and full of flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This German Dumpling Soup
This soup is everything good food should be: hearty, nostalgic, and deeply comforting.
- Juicy beef dumplings made from scratch
- Simmered in a rich, flavorful broth
- Packed with vegetables for balance
- Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings
- Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
Each spoonful gives you a little bit of everything — tender dumplings, sweet carrots, and that comforting homemade taste that feels like a hug from the inside out.
The first time I made this soup, it reminded me of the homemade meals that got me through long winters as a kid. The same feeling I get from dishes like my German Frikadellen — humble, honest cooking that turns a few pantry staples into something deeply satisfying.
This soup does exactly that, combining seasoned beef dumplings, tender vegetables, and a golden broth into one cozy bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dumplings
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wonton wrappers (about 40–50)
For the Soup
- 8 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 parsnip, diced (optional)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Add a splash of white wine for depth
- Toss in leeks or potatoes for extra heartiness
- Substitute wonton wrappers with homemade dough if you’re feeling traditional
- Garnish with dill or chives for a fresh twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
This soup may look fancy, but my version keeps it approachable and rewarding from start to finish.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but not overworked. (Jake’s tip: Gentle hands make tender dumplings.)
- Assemble the dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of a wonton wrapper. Brush the edges with water, fold, and seal tightly. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
- Start the broth: In a large pot, heat the broth over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, and parsnip. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Cook the dumplings: Carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering broth, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the dumplings float and the meat is fully cooked.
- Finish and season: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overcrowd the pot — cook dumplings in batches if needed.
- Stir gently to avoid tearing the wrappers.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure — dumplings should reach 160°F internally.
- Let the soup rest before serving for deeper flavor.
Expert Tips for Success
This soup rewards patience and care — here’s how to make it perfect every time.
- Make extra dumplings and freeze them raw for quick weeknight dinners.
- Use high-quality broth — it’s the backbone of the dish.
- Add a bay leaf or two while simmering for a subtle herbal note.
- If the broth becomes cloudy, lower the heat — a gentle simmer keeps it clear.
- For richer flavor, brown the beef mixture slightly before wrapping.
- Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for brightness.
If you love comforting, European-style soups like this, you’ll also enjoy my Italian Wedding Soup — it shares that same hearty meat-and-broth magic, with an Italian twist.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is perfect as a main course or paired with something simple on the side.
- Serve with a thick slice of rye or sourdough bread
- Add a dollop of sour cream for richness
- Pair with a light salad for balance
- Garnish with crispy fried onions for texture
- Serve alongside Swedish Meatball Soup for a comforting European dinner spread
- Sprinkle Parmesan or Gruyère cheese before serving for an extra indulgent touch
It’s a soup meant for gathering — a dish that feels both humble and special at the same time.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store It
- Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw overnight before reheating.
- If freezing, store dumplings and broth separately for the best texture.
How to Reheat It
- Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Avoid boiling — it can cause dumplings to fall apart.
This soup reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and comfort — hearty enough for dinner yet light enough to leave room for dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes — prepare and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use homemade dumpling dough?
Absolutely. A simple flour-and-egg dough gives it a rustic, authentic feel.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes — use vegetable broth and fill the dumplings with mashed lentils, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
This German Dumpling Soup feels like a warm embrace in a bowl — rich, tender, and comforting from the first bite to the last. It’s a dish rooted in tradition but simple enough for any home cook to master.
- Take your time wrapping the dumplings — they’re the heart of the soup.
- Use good broth — it elevates the entire dish.
- Don’t forget the parsley garnish — it adds that fresh finish.
If you’re craving another old-world comfort classic, try my Vegetable Beef Soup with Potatoes and Corn. Together, they make the ultimate cozy meal lineup — hearty, nostalgic, and made with love.
German Dumpling Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in each wonton wrapper. Brush edges with water and fold to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
- Heat broth in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced carrots, celery, and parsnip. Simmer 10–12 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Carefully add the dumplings to the simmering broth. Stir gently and simmer 10–15 minutes until dumplings float and meat is fully cooked.
- Stir in chopped parsley and adjust salt and pepper. Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use high-quality broth for depth of flavor and consider freezing extra dumplings for quick meals.
- For clearer broth, keep at a gentle simmer.
