German Potato Dumplings Recipe
Introduction
German Potato Dumplings are a comforting and satisfying side dish perfect for pairing with roasted meats or hearty sauces. Made from starchy potatoes and a simple dough, they offer a tender, fluffy texture that’s easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients
- 2 lbs starchy potatoes (like Russets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: Nutmeg or onion powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
- Step 2: Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly, then mash until smooth.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Step 4: If using, add nutmeg or onion powder to the dough and mix well.
- Step 5: Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into a ball about the size of a golf ball.
- Step 6: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Step 7: Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water. They are done when they float to the surface, about 2-4 minutes.
- Step 8: Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and serve immediately with your favorite sauce or roasted meats.
Tips & Variations
- Use Russet potatoes for fluffier dumplings as they have a higher starch content.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or onion powder for a subtle depth of flavor.
- For firmer dumplings, reduce the flour slightly or add an extra egg yolk.
- Serve with gravy, mushroom sauce, or alongside roasted pork for a traditional meal.
Storage
Store cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently simmer them in boiling water until warmed through, or pan-fry them in butter for a crisp exterior.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use waxy potatoes instead of starchy ones?
Waxy potatoes are less ideal because they produce denser dumplings. Starchy potatoes like Russets result in a fluffier texture.
How can I tell when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are cooked when they float to the surface of boiling water, usually within 2 to 4 minutes.
PrintGerman Potato Dumplings Recipe
This traditional German Potato Dumplings recipe features fluffy dumplings made from starchy Russet potatoes combined with flour and egg, gently boiled to perfection. These versatile dumplings are perfect as a side dish to accompany hearty roasted meats or a flavorful sauce. The recipe offers optional seasoning with nutmeg or onion powder for an extra depth of taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 dumplings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Potato Dumplings
- 2 lbs starchy potatoes (Russet potatoes recommended for fluffier texture)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or onion powder
Instructions
- Preparation: Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender and easily pierced.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, mash them until smooth to ensure a uniform dough.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, the large egg, and salt. Mix well until a soft, pliable dough forms. If using, incorporate nutmeg or onion powder for added flavor.
- Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a ball approximately the size of a golf ball for consistent cooking.
- Boil the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook them until they float to the surface. This typically takes between 2 to 4 minutes.
- Remove and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings from the water once they float. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or alongside roasted meats for a classic German meal experience.
Notes
- Using Russet potatoes is key for achieving fluffy dumplings.
- Ensure potatoes are well drained and slightly cooled before mashing to improve dough texture.
- Do not overmix dough as it may become tough.
- Dumplings should be uniform in size to cook evenly.
- Serve immediately after cooking for best taste and texture.
Keywords: German, Potato Dumplings, Side Dish, Boiled Dumplings, Traditional German Recipe

