Frikadellen are traditional German meat patties, often referred to as German hamburgers. They are made from a mixture of ground meat, onions, herbs, and breadcrumbs, resulting in juicy and flavorful patties that are a staple in German cuisine. Frikadellen are typically pan-fried until golden brown and can be served hot or cold, making them a versatile dish for various
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Frikadellen recipe because it's straightforward and yields delicious results. The combination of ground meat with aromatic herbs and onions creates a savory patty that's both satisfying and comforting. It's a dish that brings the authentic flavors of Germany to my kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Egg
- Breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
- Mustard
- Oil for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into patties of your desired size.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown crust.
- Remove the Frikadellen from the skillet and drain on paper towels if necessary. Serve hot or allow them to cool for later use.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheese-Stuffed Frikadellen: Place a small cube of cheese in the center of each patty before shaping to add a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Frikadellen: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to change the flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for about 1-2 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What type of meat is best for Frikadellen?
You can use beef or ground turkey for a leaner option.
Can I bake Frikadellen instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are Frikadellen served hot or cold?
They can be enjoyed both hot and cold, making them great for meals and as a snack on the go.
What sides go well with Frikadellen?
Common sides include potato salad, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them.
Conclusion
Frikadellen are a delightful and versatile dish that brings the taste of German home cooking to my table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty addition to any meal. Whether served hot or cold, these savory patties are sure to satisfy.
Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: German
Description
Enjoy the hearty taste of Authentic German Frikadellen—savory meat patties that are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. This traditional German recipe blends ground meat, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then pan-fries them to golden perfection. Ideal for serving hot or cold, Frikadellen are a comforting dish that brings authentic German flavors to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp mustard
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into equal-sized patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot, or allow to cool for later use.
Notes
- For added flavor, try stuffing the patties with cheese or adding chili for a spicy version.
- These can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes instead of frying.
- Perfect for make-ahead meals and lunchboxes!
