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Authentic German Potato Dumplings (Kartoffelklöße) Made Easy

Close-up of several golden brown, breaded potato dumplings served in a small white bowl.

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You can make soft, fluffy German Potato Dumplings, or Kartoffelklöße, using this simple recipe. These are a hearty, traditional side dish perfect for serving with gravy or roast meats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs starchy potatoes (like Russet), peeled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until they are completely tender. Drain them well and let them steam dry for about 10 minutes.
  2. While the potatoes cool slightly, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and crisp. Set aside.
  3. Mash the warm potatoes thoroughly until no lumps remain. You can use a potato ricer for the best texture. Let the mashed potatoes cool until they are just warm to the touch.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Mix gently.
  5. Gradually add the flour to the potato mixture. Mix just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, or your dumplings will be tough.
  6. Lightly flour your hands. Divide the dough into portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
  7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer (do not boil rapidly). Carefully drop the potato dumplings into the simmering water.
  8. Cook the dumplings for about 15 to 20 minutes. They are done when they float to the surface and stay there for a few minutes.
  9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked dumplings from the water.
  10. Gently toss the finished potato dumplings in the toasted breadcrumbs before serving immediately with your favorite gravy or sauce.

Notes

  • For the fluffiest dumplings, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
  • If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you can use them, but make sure they are cold and firm before mixing in the other ingredients.
  • To prevent sticking while shaping, keep a small bowl of flour nearby for dusting your hands.

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