German Green Bean Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a soulful, classic dish packed with comfort and heartiness, German Green Bean Soup is a treasure worth discovering. This savory favorite, affectionately known as bohnensuppe, brings together crisp turkey bacon, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes in a warming broth that’s beautifully seasoned and oh-so-satisfying. One bowl is a cozy trip to a rustic German kitchen, and it’s exactly the kind of soup you’ll crave on chilly evenings – or anytime you need a taste of wholesome tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making German Green Bean Soup is just how approachable the ingredient list is. Each component adds something memorable, whether it’s the smoky savor of turkey bacon or the fresh pop of green beans, and together they create a harmony you won’t want to miss.

• turkey Bacon: Chopped into 1-inch pieces, it provides a smoky, savory base and delicious crispy bites throughout the soup.
• Onion: Thinly chopped, onion brings a natural sweetness and rich aroma that deepens every spoonful.
• Green beans: Chopped into 1-inch lengths, they give an unmistakable fresh flavor, vibrant color, and tender bite.
• Potatoes: Diced for heartiness, potatoes melt slightly into the broth, giving it body and extra comfort.
• Stock: Whether chicken or vegetable, a good stock brings all the ingredients together with depth.
• Sour cream: For that creamy tang which balances all the savory goodness and makes the texture irresistible.
• Savory (dried): This classic German herb adds an authentic, slightly peppery flavor that’s unique to traditional green bean soups.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the nuanced flavors in the pot—season to taste as you go.

How to Make German Green Bean Soup

Step 1: Crisp Up the turkey Bacon

Start by placing the turkey bacon in a cold saucepan. This trick helps render out the fat perfectly. Turn the heat to medium-high and let the turkey bacon cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s irresistibly crispy and golden. Those crunchy pieces will add savory flavor and texture to your soup, while the rendered fat becomes the perfect base for building flavor.

Step 2: Soften the Onion

Once the turkey bacon’s looking just right, add your chopped onion to the pan. Sauté the onion in that lovely bacon fat until it’s soft and fragrant; this usually takes about 3–4 minutes. The combination of turkey bacon and onion aromas is an invitation to anyone within sniffing distance!

Step 3: Add Vegetables, Stock, and Seasoning

It’s time for the stars of the show! Toss the trimmed and chopped green beans and diced potatoes into the pot. Sprinkle in the dried savory, then season generously with salt and pepper. Pour in your choice of stock until the veggies are just covered. Give it all a good stir and take a moment to enjoy the gorgeous color combination.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let everything bubble away happily until the green beans and potatoes are tender, about 20–25 minutes. The soup will smell incredible and start to resemble the cozy, rustic vibe you’re after for German Green Bean Soup.

Step 5: Puree and Creamify

Now for the secret that makes this soup extra luxurious: ladle about a third of the soup into a bowl or measuring jug. Use an immersion blender to puree this portion until smooth. Add the sour cream and blend a little more—the puree will take on a velvety, creamy consistency that’s pure magic for the final dish.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Pour the pureed mixture back into the main pot. Give everything a good stir to marry the flavors and textures. Taste your German Green Bean Soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Gently reheat the soup for a few more minutes, making sure not to let it boil; this keeps the sour cream nice and smooth.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

With your soup now thickened and bursting with flavor, it’s ready to ladle into wide bowls. For an extra touch, you can top each bowl with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of reserved crispy turkey bacon. And now you’re ready to savor a truly heartwarming bowl of German Green Bean Soup!

How to Serve German Green Bean Soup

Garnishes

No bowl is complete without a final flourish. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley for a bright, herby finish or go all-in with a few extra turkey bacon bits for a salty crunch. If you love a pop of color, a little sprinkle of paprika can add both style and a hint of smokiness.

Side Dishes

German Green Bean Soup is wonderful all on its own, but it also plays beautifully with classic sides. A thick slice of rustic sourdough or a chewy German pretzel is perfect for dunking. For heartier fare, serve alongside bratwurst or a simple green salad to round out the meal without overpowering the soup’s cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch at a casual dinner or potluck, serve the soup in small mugs or mini bread bowls so guests can walk and mingle. Or, try topping bowls with homemade croutons tossed in turkey bacon fat—an irresistible twist for both kids and adults. You can even scatter a few toasted pumpkin seeds on top for a nutty crunch that’s totally unexpected.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. German Green Bean Soup will keep in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors only get deeper and more comforting overnight.

Freezing

This soup freezes very well. Once the soup has cooled, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for another cozy meal, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan and warm it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil, especially because of the sour cream, as this can cause it to separate. A gentle stir and slow warming are all you need for a second (or third!) comforting bowl.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen green beans work beautifully in German Green Bean Soup. Just add them as you would fresh, no thawing required. You’ll get great flavor and color, and it’s a handy shortcut for busy nights.

Is there a substitute for savory if I can’t find it?

If you can’t find dried savory, try using a mix of thyme and marjoram in about equal parts. These herbs offer a similar earthy, peppery note that complements the green beans wonderfully.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the turkey bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions. Opt for a good-quality vegetable stock, and you’ll still get a delicious, hearty German Green Bean Soup with plenty of flavor.

Is this soup gluten free?

It sure is, as long as your stock and turkey bacon are certified gluten-free. This makes it a fantastic choice for those with gluten sensitivities who still want to enjoy a comforting, classic meal.

What’s the best way to make the soup even creamier?

If you love a creamier texture, simply puree a larger portion of the soup or stir in extra sour cream at the end. A splash of heavy cream also adds extra richness if you’re feeling indulgent!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about ladling up a bowl of German Green Bean Soup—the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace. Give it a try, share it with family or friends, and I promise you’ll be making this one on repeat whenever comfort food cravings call.

Print