Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup Recipe
Bavaria's classic starter
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Rustic dumplings made from calf's liver and bread, served in clear beef broth with chives.
About This Recipe
"Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup" is a Soups & Stews recipe that brings calf's liver, ground, stale bread rolls, cubed, milk, onion, finely diced and egg together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 45 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 10 oz calf's liver, ground
- 3 stale bread rolls, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 egg
- 6 cups clear beef broth
Instructions
- 1
Soak bread in milk. Squeeze excess. Mix with liver, onion, egg, and marjoram.
- 2
Form dumplings and simmer in salted water 15-20 minutes.
- 3
Serve dumplings in hot clear broth with chives.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Calf's liver, ground is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup" is a versatile Soups & Stews dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 45 minutes. It serves 4 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup?
Store leftover Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Bavarian Liver Dumpling Soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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