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Savory German Frikadellen

These German Frikadellen are juicy, pan-fried patties that bring a taste of tradition to your dinner table.

Min-Jae Park - Head Chef
By Min-Jae Park
4.7 (150 reviews)
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Delicious Savory German Frikadellen - homemade German comfort food recipe
Savory German Frikadellen - Ready to enjoy

Imagine the sizzle of a hot pan as you prepare these delightful German Frikadellen. Each bite is a journey through rich, savory flavors, with a crispy exterior giving way to a juicy, tender center. These patties are a beloved staple in German cuisine, often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions. Pair them with roasted potatoes and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes these Frikadellen truly special is their versatility and the way they capture the essence of home-cooked comfort. The combination of ground meat, onions, and a blend of spices creates a flavor profile that's both familiar and unique. Whether you're recreating a cherished family recipe or exploring German cuisine for the first time, these patties are sure to impress. Their simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, making them a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, they can be easily adapted to suit your taste, whether you prefer them spicy, herby, or with a hint of garlic.

Step-by-step preparation of Savory German Frikadellen showing ingredients and initial cooking steps
Preparing the ingredients
Cooking process for Savory German Frikadellen showing technique and proper timing
During the cooking process

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Mixing Bowl

Essential for combining ingredients evenly

Frying Pan

Achieves the perfect crispy exterior

Spatula

Helps flip the patties without breaking

Cutting Board

Preps onions and herbs efficiently

Perfect Pairings

Roasted Potatoes

Complements the savory flavor with a crispy texture

Sauerkraut

Adds a tangy contrast to the rich patties

German Beer

Enhances the meal with a refreshing finish

Cucumber Salad

Offers a light, fresh balance

Perfectly cooked Savory German Frikadellen served and ready to eat - final result
The perfect finished result

Pro Tips

  • For extra juiciness, mix in a bit of grated onion into the meat.
  • Allow the patties to rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
  • Use a mix of beef and pork for a more authentic taste and texture.

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Savory German Frikadellen

Experience the comforting flavors of Germany with these succulent Frikadellen, perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to a golden brown.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4 yields
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: German

Ingredients

💡 Click on ingredients to check them off!

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp oil for frying

Instructions

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  1. 1
    Mix Ingredients
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika until well blended.
  2. 2
    Shape Patties
    Form the mixture into palm-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring they hold together well.
  3. 3
    Heat Oil
    In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  4. 4
    Fry Patties
    Place patties in the skillet, cooking each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. 5
    Rest Patties
    Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
  6. 6
    Garnish and Serve
    Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 350
Total Fat 18.0g
Carbohydrates 15.0g
Protein 25.0g

Chef's Notes

  • Frikadellen are best enjoyed fresh off the pan, sizzling and aromatic.
  • Pair these juicy patties with a side of crispy potatoes for a hearty meal.
  • The rich, savory aroma of Frikadellen fills the kitchen with warmth.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frikadellen are traditional German pan-fried patties, similar to hamburgers. They are made with a mix of ground meats, often beef and pork, and seasoned with spices and herbs for a flavorful dish.

To keep Frikadellen moist, incorporate ingredients like grated onions or breadcrumbs soaked in milk. These help retain moisture during cooking, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Shape the patties just before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste when cooked.

Frikadellen pair wonderfully with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables. The savory flavors complement a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish for any meal.