Creamy Knoephla Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, comforting, and downright delicious, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Knoephla Soup. Originating from German settlers in the Midwest, specifically in North and South Dakota, Knoephla Soup has become a beloved dish in these regions. This creamy, chicken-based soup is packed with tender dumplings (known as knoephla) and vegetables, making it a complete, filling meal.

What makes Knoephla Soup so special is its perfect balance of creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings that soak up all the flavors of the soup. If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting this rich soup, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive deep into how you can make it at home and bring that Midwestern charm right to your kitchen.

This recipe will guide you through creating a rich, flavorful, and filling bowl of Knoephla Soup that serves around 6-8 people. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone just beginning to explore the culinary world, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees success.

Ingredients Needed

For the Soup Base:

4 cups of chicken broth – The base of the soup, bringing a savory depth.
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – For that tender, juicy protein element.
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter – To start building that creamy foundation.
1 small onion, finely chopped – For sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 medium carrots, sliced – To add color, texture, and a bit of sweetness.
2 celery stalks, chopped – A classic veggie for that fresh crunch and flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic, minced – Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better.
2 cups of heavy cream – This is what gives the soup its creamy, dreamy texture.
Salt and pepper – For seasoning (to taste).
1 tablespoon of fresh parsley – Optional, for garnish.

For the Dumplings (Knoephla):

2 cups all-purpose flour – The main ingredient for creating the dumplings.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – To give the dumplings a nice lift.
1 teaspoon salt – To ensure the dumplings are well-seasoned.
2 large eggs – To bind the dough together.
1/4 cup milk – For a smoother dough consistency.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare The Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs in a large pot. Add the chicken broth, and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. Once done, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set it aside.
Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make The Soup Base

Pour in the heavy cream and return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a low simmer. Season with salt and pepper, and let the soup simmer gently while you prepare the dumplings.
Prepare The Dumplings (Knoephla)

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs and milk, stirring until you have a sticky dough. Use a spoon to carefully drop small portions of the dough (about 1 teaspoon each) directly into the simmering soup. Let the dumplings cook for about 10-12 minutes. They should float to the top when done.
Final Touches

Once the dumplings are cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you’d like, sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Chicken Broth: The broth you choose can make or break the flavor of your soup. Opt for a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth for a more balanced flavor. If you have homemade stock, even better!
Heavy Cream: The rich creaminess of the soup is what makes it so luxurious. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, though it won’t have quite the same texture.
Flour for Dumplings: Regular all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, as it helps create a dough that holds together but isn’t too dense. The key is to not overmix the dough-gently stir it to maintain its light, pillowy texture.
Chicken (Breasts vs. Thighs): You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner.

Expert Tips

Don’t Overcook the Dumplings: Keep an eye on the dumplings while they cook. If you let them boil for too long, they could become tough. As soon as they float to the top, they’re ready to go.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with the vegetables you add to the soup. Some people love adding parsnips, potatoes, or even peas to the mix, which brings in different textures and flavors.
Flavor Boosting: If you want a bit more depth of flavor, a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh thyme can elevate the soup beautifully. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a little brightness.
Make Ahead and Freeze: Knoephla Soup freezes exceptionally well. If you want to prepare it in advance, just cook everything up to the point of adding the dumplings. Once frozen, simply reheat, drop in fresh dumplings, and cook them from there.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Knoephla Soup: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth to create a plant-based version of the soup. Add extra veggies, like mushrooms or zucchini, for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Knoephla Soup: If you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup base, or top each bowl with a dollop of sriracha.
Dumplings with Herbs: Add finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, rosemary, or thyme) into the dumpling dough for an extra burst of flavor.

Final Words

There’s something magical about a bowl of Knoephla Soup-its hearty warmth and creamy richness are exactly what you need on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to serve at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

The beauty of Knoephla Soup is in its versatility. It’s the kind of dish you can easily adjust to suit your preferences, whether by playing with the dumpling dough or adding a few personal touches to the broth.

Creamy Knoephla Soup Recipe