German Frikadellen are juicy, pan-fried meat patties made from a flavorful blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices. These hearty, comforting patties are a staple in German cuisine and are often served with mustard, potato salad, or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic German flavor – Traditional spices and ingredients create the classic taste
- Easy to make – Simple steps with minimal prep time
- Juicy and flavorful – Moist meat patties with a crispy exterior
- Versatile – Enjoy as a main dish, in sandwiches, or as a snack
- Great for meal prep – Make ahead and store for later
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef and pork (50/50 mix for best flavor)
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Stale bread or breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Mustard (Dijon or German-style)
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika
- Marjoram (or dried thyme)
- Parsley, chopped
- Oil or butter for frying
Directions
- Soak the bread – Soak stale bread in milk for a few minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid.
- Mix the ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the ground meats, chopped onion, garlic, soaked bread, egg, mustard, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Form the patties – Shape the mixture into round or oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- Fry the Frikadellen – Heat oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve – Enjoy warm with mustard, potato salad, or a side of crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6 patties
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Cheese-Stuffed: Place a small cube of cheese inside each patty before frying.
- Herb Variations: Try using dill, chives, or caraway seeds for a different flavor.
- Baked Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes instead of frying.
- Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork and beef.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Frikadellen and hamburgers?
Frikadellen have a softer texture due to soaked bread and extra seasonings, making them juicier than regular hamburgers.
Can I make these without pork?
Yes, you can use all beef or substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Why do I need to soak the bread?
Soaking the bread makes the patties moist and tender instead of dry.
Can I grill Frikadellen instead of frying?
Yes, but they may be slightly drier. Brush with oil before grilling.
What sides go well with Frikadellen?
Traditional sides include potato salad, mashed potatoes, or sauerkraut.
Can I make mini Frikadellen for appetizers?
Yes, shape them into smaller bite-sized portions and serve with mustard or dipping sauce.
How do I prevent Frikadellen from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well-mixed and not too wet. If needed, add more breadcrumbs to bind it.
What type of mustard should I serve with them?
A German-style mustard like Düsseldorf or Bavarian sweet mustard is best.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I get a crispy crust?
Use a mix of butter and oil for frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
Authentic German Frikadellen are juicy, flavorful meat patties that are easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether served with mustard, potatoes, or bread, these traditional patties are a delicious and comforting dish. Try them today and enjoy a taste of Germany at home!
Print
Authentic German Frikadellen
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: German
Description
Savor the classic taste of Germany with these authentic Frikadellen. These flavorful meat patties combine ground beef and pork with herbs and spices, offering a delicious experience whether served hot or cold.
Ingredients
- 1 kaiser roll (or any white bread roll)
- 2/3 pound (300 grams) ground beef
- 1/3 pound (150 grams) ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably German or Dijon)
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak the Bread: Place the kaiser roll in a bowl of water and let it soak for about 10 minutes until softened. After soaking, drain and squeeze out any excess water, then crumble the bread into small pieces.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bread, ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, egg, parsley, mustard, marjoram, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Patties: With moistened hands to prevent sticking, form the mixture into patties approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter and about ¾ inch thick.
- Cook the Frikadellen: In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a deep brown crust and are cooked through. An internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) is recommended for safety.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the Frikadellen from the skillet and let them rest briefly. Serve them hot alongside German potato salad, sauerkraut, or mashed potatoes. Alternatively, enjoy them cold as a snack or in a sandwich with mustard.
Notes
- Variations: Some traditional recipes include a pinch of ground mace or nutmeg for added depth of flavor.
- Storage: Frikadellen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.