If you’ve never had Frikadellen, you’re in for a treat! These German-style meat patties are like a cross between a hamburger and a meatball—juicy, flavorful, and packed with traditional seasonings. Unlike American burgers, Frikadellen aren’t served in a bun. Instead, they’re pan-fried to perfection and often paired with mustard, potato salad, or crusty bread. This is German comfort food at its best!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic & Traditional: This recipe sticks to the classic flavors that make Frikadellen a staple in German households.
- Juicy & Flavorful: Thanks to soaked bread, onions, and the perfect spice mix, these patties stay moist and delicious.
- Easy to Make: No fancy techniques—just mix, shape, and pan-fry!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for these traditional Frikadellen:
- Ground beef and pork (a 50/50 mix gives the best flavor)
- Stale bread (soaked in water or milk)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Eggs (to bind everything together)
- Mustard (adds a bit of tang)
- Salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram (the secret to authentic flavor)
- Parsley (for freshness)
- Oil or butter (for frying)
Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below!
Directions
Step 1: Soak the Bread
Tear the stale bread into small pieces and soak it in a little water or milk for about 5 minutes. Once soft, squeeze out the excess liquid and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, chopped onion, eggs, mustard, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Form the mixture into oval-shaped patties, slightly flattened. Traditional Frikadellen are a bit thicker than a burger but not as round as a meatball.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat a pan over medium heat with a little oil or butter. Fry the patties for about 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Let the Frikadellen rest for a couple of minutes before serving. They taste even better when paired with mustard and a classic German side dish!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Skip the Bread: This is what keeps the Frikadellen soft and juicy. Stale bread works best, but fresh bread can be used if dried out slightly.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing the meat can make the patties dense—handle with care!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked patties.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the patties sit for a few minutes keeps them juicy inside.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- All-Beef Option: If you don’t eat pork, you can use 100% beef, but the texture will be slightly firmer.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.
- Herb Swap: Instead of marjoram, try oregano or thyme for a slightly different flavor.
- Baking Option: If you want to skip frying, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Classic Side Dishes: Serve with German potato salad, mashed potatoes, or sauerkraut.
- Bread Pairing: Enjoy with crusty rolls (Brötchen) and a side of mustard.
- Sauces: Try them with creamy mustard sauce or a simple garlic aioli.
- Beverage Pairing: A cold German beer or sparkling apple cider complements these perfectly!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked Frikadellen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready.
- Reheat: Warm them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I make Frikadellen in advance?
Yes! You can mix and shape the patties ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
2. What’s the difference between Frikadellen and American hamburgers?
Frikadellen have a softer, juicier texture thanks to the soaked bread, and they are usually served without a bun.
3. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Are Frikadellen gluten-free?
Not traditionally, but you can substitute gluten-free bread to make them gluten-free!
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and full of German tradition, Frikadellen are a must-try! These juicy, pan-fried patties are perfect for any meal, and they pair wonderfully with so many sides. Give this recipe a go, and let me know how you like to serve yours!
Print
Authentic German Frikadellen: The Juiciest German Hamburgers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (normal) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: German
Description
Frikadellen are Germany’s version of juicy, flavorful hamburgers—though they’re more like a cross between a burger and a meatball! These pan-fried patties are packed with savory seasonings, breadcrumbs, and a hint of mustard for extra depth. Perfect for a hearty meal or served with mustard and crusty bread as a classic German street food.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 tbsp Dijon or German mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram (or oregano)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp butter (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, softened breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram, and parsley. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the patties: Form the mixture into 4–6 oval-shaped patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Heat the pan: Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Frikadellen: Fry the patties for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
- Serve: Let the Frikadellen rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with mustard, bread rolls, or as a main dish with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Notes
- For a more traditional taste, use a mix of ground pork and beef.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, coat the patties lightly with flour before frying.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg