Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I flipped through my grandmother’s cherished cookbook, the handwritten notes and faded pages transported me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. Among the enchanting recipes, one stood out—Authentic German Frikadellen. These delectable meat patties hold a special place in my heart, boasting a hearty texture and rich flavor that can evoke nostalgia with every bite. Not only are these treats versatile enough to serve as a main dish or snack, but they also come with options for everyone—think gluten-free or vegetarian variations without sacrificing taste. Imagine impressing your loved ones with a dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying! Curious about how to recreate this German favorite at home? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of Frikadellen together! Why are German Frikadellen so beloved? Authentic Flavor: These German meat patties deliver a rich, savory experience that’s hard to resist. Family Tradition: Perfect for gatherings, Frikadellen bring back memories of cherished family meals. Versatile Options: Gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives ensure there’s something for everyone at the table. Time-Saving: Quick to prepare and cook, they fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. Perfect Texture: Enjoy a crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior—ideal for any occasion! German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Ingredients For the Meat Mixture • Ground Beef – Adds richness and depth of flavor; you can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. • Ground Pork – Contributes juiciness and a balanced meat profile; consider substituting with lamb for a unique twist. • Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness and moisture; finely chop for even distribution. • Garlic – Enhances flavor with a robust savory note; mince for deeper infusion in the mixture. • Stale Bread – Acts as a binder and adds a unique texture; gluten-free bread or oats can be used for gluten-free versions. • Egg – Binds the mixture and adds richness. • Mustard – Imparts tanginess and enhances depth of flavor; use German mustard for authenticity. • Black Pepper & Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste. For the Seasoning and Color • Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and vibrant color to the dish. • Paprika – Provides a subtle warmth and appealing hue. For Cooking • Vegetable Oil – Used for frying to create a crispy exterior on your delicious Frikadellen. Dive into creating these flavorful, German Hamburgers authentic German Frikadellen that will bring a touch of warmth and tradition to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Step 1: Combine the Meats In a large mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of ground beef and 500 grams of ground pork. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to gently mix the two types of meat together until evenly blended. This mixture will form the rich base of your German Hamburgers, the authentic German Frikadellen. Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients Next, finely chop one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic. Add the onion and garlic to the meat mixture, ensuring they’re well distributed to enhance flavor. Remember that the moisture from the onion will keep the patties juicy and balanced, making each bite of your Frikadellen delightful. Step 3: Incorporate the Binders Take two slices of stale bread and soak them in milk for a few minutes. Once softened, squeeze out the excess liquid before adding it to the meat mixture. Then, beat one egg and stir it in along with two tablespoons of German mustard, a teaspoon of salt, and a teaspoon of black pepper to bind everything together beautifully. Step 4: Season and Mix Chop a handful of fresh parsley and sprinkle it into the mixture along with a teaspoon of paprika for a slight warmth. Mix the contents gently with your hands to combine everything thoroughly, being careful not to over-mix. This is crucial for ensuring your German Hamburgers, the authentic German Frikadellen, remain tender. Step 5: Form the Patties With the mixture ready, scoop out portions with your hands and shape them into patties about one inch thick and three to four inches wide. Aim for 8-10 patties overall. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper, keeping them separated to avoid sticking, while they rest before frying. Step 6: Heat the Skillet In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to cover the bottom surface. Allow it to heat for about 2 minutes or until shimmering—this indicates it’s ready for cooking. The oil provides that perfect crispiness to the outside of your Frikadellen without burning. Step 7: Fry the Frikadellen Carefully place a few patties into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Flip them gently and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, ensuring they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). Step 8: Drain and Serve Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Your authentic German Frikadellen are now ready to enjoy—serve them warm with sides like potato salad or fresh bread for a true taste of Germany! What to Serve with Authentic German Frikadellen Picture this: a cozy dinner among loved ones, where the aroma of hearty patties fills the air, inviting everyone to the table. German Potato Salad: This tangy, warm salad brings a delightful contrast to the savory Frikadellen. Its mustardy dressing enhances the meal’s rich flavors while providing a creamy texture. Sauerkraut: The sour crunch of sauerkraut balances the hearty meat patties beautifully. It not only complements the dish but also adds a touch of traditional German flair. Fresh Rolls: Soft, crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any juices from the Frikadellen. Serve them warm for a comforting addition to your meal that everyone will enjoy. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the plate. Its light crunch provides a lovely texture that contrasts the juicy meat patties. Mustard Dipping Sauce: A tangy mustard dip pairs perfectly with the Frikadellen, amplifying their flavor. Offer different mustards for variety, creating a fun dipping experience! Red Cabbage Slaw: This sweet and tangy slaw offers a refreshing crunch that complements the rich taste of the patties. Its vibrant color makes the dish visually appealing, too. Beer or German Wine: A chilled German lager or a glass of Riesling can elevate your dining experience, harmonizing with the robust flavors of the Frikadellen while celebrating their authenticity. Apple Sauce: A spoonful of homemade apple sauce can provide a delightful sweetness, creating a pleasant contrast that highlights the Frikadellen’s savory notes. It’s a true comfort food pairing! German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Variations Feel free to explore these creative twists on the classic Frikadellen to make them your own! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or oats to soak and bind the mixture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish. Vegetarian Delight: Swap the meat for a mixture of mashed lentils, beans, and spices combined with rice or quinoa. You’ll be amazed at how hearty and satisfying these veggie patties can be! Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic flavor boost that will transport you to an herb garden with every bite. Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist that adds excitement to your meal. Cheesy Addition: Incorporate fine shreds of your favorite cheese into the meat mixture before forming the patties for a delightful melty surprise inside each one! Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor profile that elevates your Frikadellen to new heights. Sweet and Savory: Stir in a touch of finely grated apple or chopped dried fruits like apricots to add a hint of sweetness that complements the spiced meat perfectly. Regional Flair: Experiment with regional spices such as cumin or coriander to create a unique version that hints at global flavors while keeping that authentic German feel. Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in creativity, so don’t hesitate to mix and match these variations or even try your own! Whether you enjoy them with traditional sides like German potato salad or fresh rolls, these delightful patties are sure to bring smiles to the table. If you’re considering a complete meal, you might enjoy pairing them with some homemade sauerkraut for added zing or a flavorful German potato salad to round out your dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Authentic German Frikadellen are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meat mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the ground meats, onions, garlic, and other ingredients as instructed, then form the patties and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, it’s essential to space the patties out or layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, fry them straight from the fridge; just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F). This approach not only saves time but ensures your Frikadellen remain just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy them! Storage Tips for German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Fridge: Store cooked German Frikadellen in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side for best results. Freezer: If you want to keep leftover Frikadellen longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to airtight bags for up to 3 months. Reheating: For frozen patties, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or skillet until heated through. This preserves their juicy texture and flavorful richness. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying, saving time on busy days while maintaining the authentic flavor. Expert Tips for Authentic German Frikadellen Don’t Over-Mix: Avoid overworking the meat mixture, as this can make your German Hamburgers tough. Mix gently to maintain tenderness. Right Bread Choice: Always use stale bread for binding; fresh bread can create a soggy mixture that doesn’t hold its shape during cooking. Pre-Rest the Patties: Allow your formed Frikadellen to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before frying, which helps them hold their shape. Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is appropriately heated before adding patties; a too-cool skillet will lead to greasy, unappealing Frikadellen. Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches to prevent steaming, which can prevent your German Hamburgers from achieving that lovely crispy crust. Check Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure each patty reaches 70°C (160°F) for safe consumption and perfect juiciness. German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ground meat for German Frikadellen? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend a blend of ground beef and ground pork. The beef adds richness while the pork provides juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner alternative, ground turkey or chicken also works well. Just ensure they’re fresh and of good quality for that authentic German taste. How should I store cooked Frikadellen, and for how long? Store your delicious German Hamburgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, try using a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side; this helps maintain their crispy texture. If you have leftovers, feel free to freeze them for longer storage! Can I freeze Frikadellen, and what’s the best way? Of course! To freeze your Authentic German Frikadellen, first, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to airtight bags or containers—this prevents them from sticking together. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or skillet. What should I do if my Frikadellen fall apart while frying? Very! If your patties are falling apart, it may be because the mixture was too wet or not adequately combined. To remedy this, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the soaked bread and mix everything gently, avoiding over-mixing. If you’re still having trouble, consider adding a bit more stale bread or an extra egg as a binder. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! For gluten-free options, substituting stale bread with gluten-free bread or oats works perfectly. If preparing for vegetarians, you can use mashed lentils, beans, or chickpeas mixed with rice or quinoa. Additionally, always check for any other allergies based on your guests’ needs, ensuring everyone enjoys these hearty patties! Savor Authentic German Frikadellen: Flavorful Homemade Hamburgers Experience the delectable taste of German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 8 pattiesCourse: DinnerCuisine: GermanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat Mixture500 grams Ground Beef Adds richness and depth of flavor; you can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.500 grams Ground Pork Contributes juiciness and a balanced meat profile; consider substituting with lamb for a unique twist.1 medium Onion Provides aromatic sweetness and moisture; finely chop for even distribution.2 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor with a robust savory note; mince for deeper infusion in the mixture.2 slices Stale Bread Acts as a binder and adds a unique texture; gluten-free bread or oats can be used for gluten-free versions.1 large Egg Binds the mixture and adds richness.2 tablespoons Mustard Imparts tanginess and enhances depth of flavor; use German mustard for authenticity.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.For the Seasoning and Color1 handful Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and vibrant color to the dish.1 teaspoon Paprika Provides a subtle warmth and appealing hue.For Cooking2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Used for frying to create a crispy exterior on your delicious Frikadellen. Equipment Mixing bowlSkilletWooden SpoonMeat thermometer Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of ground beef and 500 grams of ground pork. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to gently mix the two types of meat together until evenly blended.Finely chop one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic. Add to the meat mixture, ensuring they’re well distributed.Soak two slices of stale bread in milk for a few minutes, then squeeze out the excess liquid before adding to the meat mixture. Beat one egg and stir it in along with two tablespoons of German mustard, a teaspoon of salt, and a teaspoon of black pepper.Chop a handful of fresh parsley and sprinkle it into the mixture along with a teaspoon of paprika. Mix gently to combine.Scoop out portions and shape them into patties about one inch thick and three to four inches wide. Aim for 8-10 patties overall.Heat enough vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through.Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pattyCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesExpert tips include avoiding over-mixing, using stale bread, pre-resting the patties, ensuring proper cooking temperature, and checking internal temperature for safety. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!