Authentic German Frikadellen: 7 Steps to Delicious Success

Name: Authentic German Frikadellen: 7 Steps to Delicious Success
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 250g ground pork; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 100g breadcrumbs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you about my love affair with authentic German frikadellen! These delightful meat patties are more than just a dish; they’re a comforting hug from my childhood. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up a batch of these savory wonders every Sunday. The aroma of sizzling meat mixed with onions and spices would waft through our home, making it feel warm and inviting. Trust me, there’s something magical about gathering around the table with family, sharing stories and laughter over these delicious frikadellen.

authentic german frikadellen - detail 1

In Germany, frikadellen are a cherished staple, often served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. They’re not just a meal; they represent tradition and togetherness. The beauty of these patties lies in their simplicity—only a handful of ingredients come together to create something truly special. If you’ve never made authentic German frikadellen before, you’re in for a treat! I can’t wait to share this recipe with you so you can experience the joy it brings. So, let’s dive into making these mouthwatering patties together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these authentic German frikadellen. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out the fantastic flavors, so let’s get into it!

500g ground beef: This is the heart of the patties, providing a rich and meaty flavor.
250g ground pork: The addition of pork makes the frikadellen juicier and gives a lovely depth to the taste.
1 onion, finely chopped: Onions add sweetness and moisture. Make sure to chop them small so they blend nicely into the mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that aromatic punch! Mince it finely to distribute the flavor evenly.
1 egg: This acts as a binder, helping all the ingredients stick together. It also adds a bit of richness.
100g breadcrumbs: Use fresh or dried breadcrumbs to give the patties a nice texture. They help absorb moisture, ensuring that your frikadellen don’t become too dry.
1 tsp salt: A must for enhancing all the flavors. Adjust to your taste if you’re watching your sodium intake.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is best! It adds a subtle heat that balances the other flavors.
1 tsp paprika: This gives a slight smokiness along with a beautiful color to your patties.
2 tbsp parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Feel free to substitute with other herbs if you prefer!
2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying. This will give your frikadellen a delicious golden crust.

How to Prepare Authentic German Frikadellen

Alright, it’s time to get our hands a little messy and create some delicious authentic German frikadellen! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to making the juiciest, most flavorful patties you’ve ever tasted.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mix them together gently with your hands—this helps to ensure an even blend without overworking the meat.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. These will infuse the patties with incredible flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Next, crack in the egg and sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix everything together just until combined—remember, we want to keep that juicy texture!
Now it’s time to form the patties! I like to make them about the size of my palm, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. Aim for about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
Once you’ve shaped all the patties, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of water sizzles in the pan!
Carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Those crispy edges are what you’re looking for!
After frying, remove the patties from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. This little resting moment helps them stay tender and juicy.
Now it’s time to serve! Enjoy your frikadellen hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Authentic German Frikadellen

Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to combine them. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
Adjust seasoning: Tasting your mixture before forming patties is key! If you want more flavor, feel free to add a dash of mustard or Worcestershire sauce.
Let them rest: After frying, don’t rush to serve them immediately. Letting them sit for a minute helps redistribute the juices.
Try different herbs: While parsley is classic, experimenting with fresh thyme or chives can add a lovely twist!
Keep your oil hot: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the patties can soak up too much oil. Just keep an eye on that sizzle!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious authentic German frikadellen! Each patty is not just a treat for the taste buds but also packed with some solid nutrition. Here’s the estimated breakdown per serving:

Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 300mg

These patties are a great source of protein, making them a satisfying choice for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them for lunch or dinner, they’re sure to keep you fueled and happy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible flavor: Each bite of these authentic German frikadellen is bursting with savory goodness, thanks to the perfect blend of meats, spices, and fresh herbs.
Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious patties ready to fry in no time!
Family-friendly: These hearty meat patties are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners.
Versatile: Serve them with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, or even as a filling in a sandwich for a satisfying lunch!
Meal prep friendly: They’re perfect for making ahead of time and can be stored for leftovers, making busy weeknights a breeze.
Comfort food: There’s nothing quite like the cozy feeling of enjoying these frikadellen, reminiscent of home-cooked meals and cherished family traditions.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made these delicious authentic German frikadellen, let’s talk about the best ways to serve them up! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level of comfort and satisfaction.

Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a timeless pairing. They soak up the juices from the frikadellen beautifully!
Warm Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad with a hint of vinegar and fresh herbs complements the savory patties perfectly. It’s a German classic!
Fresh Green Salad: A light and crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat.
Red Cabbage: Sweet and sour braised red cabbage is another traditional side that pairs wonderfully. Its slight tartness balances the savory flavors of the frikadellen.
Crusty Bread: Serve with some hearty crusty bread to soak up any delicious drippings. A slice of rustic sourdough or a soft dinner roll is perfect!
Mustard and Pickles: Don’t forget to put out some mustard and pickles for dipping! They add a nice kick and enhance the overall flavor.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have at home or what your family enjoys. The goal is to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also feels like a warm hug from the kitchen. Enjoy your frikadellen, and let the flavors come alive on your plate!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious authentic German frikadellen leftovers! Trust me, you’re going to want to save every last bite because they’re just as tasty the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

Storing Leftovers

Let them cool: After cooking, allow the frikadellen to cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the storage container.
Airtight container: Place the cooled patties in an airtight container. You can also layer them with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking.
Refrigerate: Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t eat them in that time, consider freezing!
Freezing: For longer storage, place the frikadellen in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label and date them!

Reheating Made Easy

When you’re ready to enjoy those frikadellen again, reheating them is a breeze! Here are a couple of methods that work perfectly:

Skillet: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the frikadellen and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until they’re warmed through and crispy again. This method really helps maintain that delicious texture!
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This is a great way to keep them from drying out.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the frikadellen on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30-60 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or they might turn rubbery!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your authentic German frikadellen over and over again. Happy cooking and savor every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use only one type of meat for frikadellen?
Absolutely! While the combination of ground beef and pork is traditional for authentic German frikadellen, you can use just one type if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember that using a mix gives a lovely depth of flavor and juiciness.

What’s the best way to serve frikadellen?
You can serve these delicious patties in a multitude of ways! They’re fantastic with mashed potatoes, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad. I love to add a dollop of mustard or some pickles for that extra zing!

Can I make frikadellen ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the mixture ahead of time! Just mix everything together and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. This can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just shape and fry them when you’re ready!

Are frikadellen gluten-free?
Yes! If you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, authentic German frikadellen can be a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How do I know when the frikadellen are cooked through?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for ground beef and pork. If you don’t have a thermometer, just cut one open; the meat should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear!

For more information on traditional German cuisine, you can visit The Spruce Eats.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.