Frikadellen, often referred to as German hamburgers, are a traditional dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. These savory patties are made with a flavorful blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices. Unlike their American counterpart, Frikadellen are flatter, softer, and packed with rich, hearty flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack, this authentic recipe will transport you straight to a cozy German kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Authentic Taste: This recipe captures the true flavors of Germany, just like Oma used to make.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, it’s both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Serve them as a main course, on a sandwich, or as part of a German-style buffet.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, Frikadellen reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to whip up this authentic German dish:
- Ground beef and pork mix
- Stale bread or breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Onion, finely chopped
- Parsley, chopped
- Mustard
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Butter or oil (for frying)
The exact ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below!
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Mixture
Soak stale bread in milk until it becomes soft, then squeeze out the excess liquid. Crumble the soaked bread into a mixing bowl. If using breadcrumbs, mix them directly with milk until slightly moist.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add ground meat, egg, finely chopped onion, parsley, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bread mixture. Using your hands, gently combine everything until well mixed but not overworked.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into oval patties about ¾-inch thick.
Step 4: Fry the Frikadellen
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the Frikadellen rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overmix: Handle the mixture gently to keep the Frikadellen tender.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the patties are cooked through without drying out.
- Add a Twist: A touch of nutmeg or caraway seeds can add extra German flair.
- Stale Bread Is Key: If you don’t have stale bread, toast fresh bread lightly and let it cool before soaking.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for some heat.
- Gluten-Free: Swap bread or breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
- Vegetarian Option: Use mashed beans or lentils in place of ground meat.
- Cheese Stuffed: Tuck a small cube of cheese inside each patty for a gooey surprise.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Frikadellen are incredibly versatile and pair well with:
- Traditional German sides like potato salad or sauerkraut
- Mashed potatoes with a rich brown gravy
- Freshly baked rolls or hearty rye bread for a sandwich-style serving
- A simple cucumber salad or steamed green beans
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F. Add a splash of broth to keep them moist.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between Frikadellen and American hamburgers?
Frikadellen are softer, seasoned more generously, and often include soaked bread for a tender texture. They’re also pan-fried rather than grilled.
2. Can I bake Frikadellen instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I use all beef instead of a beef-pork mix?
You can, but the pork adds a juicy richness that makes Frikadellen extra flavorful. If using only beef, choose a fattier cut.
4. Are Frikadellen served with a sauce?
They’re often served plain, but a brown gravy or mustard pairs beautifully with them.
Conclusion
These Authentic German Frikadellen are the perfect way to bring a taste of Germany into your kitchen. Easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly versatile, they’re a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Serve them with your favorite sides, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s steeped in tradition. Prost!
Print
Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe (German Hamburgers)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 patties 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: German
Description
Frikadellen are a classic German comfort food—flavorful, pan-fried patties made with ground meat, bread, and spices. These juicy “German hamburgers” are perfect as a main dish, sandwich filling, or even a snack. Traditionally served with potato salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 slice stale white bread (or 1/2 cup breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground marjoram (optional)
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread mixture: Soak the slice of stale bread in milk for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess milk and crumble the bread into small pieces. Set aside.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, onion, garlic, egg, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram (if using), and parsley. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the Frikadellen: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape each into a flat oval-shaped patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Cook the Frikadellen: Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
- Serve: Serve warm with potato salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Leftover Frikadellen are delicious served cold in sandwiches with mustard or pickles.
- If you prefer baking, cook the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Frikadelle
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
I have been making these for our family and friends for a couple of years now. I fry the patties lightly, just enough to hold them together and then put them in a casserole with a packet brown onion gravy for about 30 minutes and serve . I also add some Smokey bacon to the mix for added flavour. They are a favourite at our house.