Frikadellen are a staple of German home cooking, offering a rich, hearty flavor with a perfect balance of crispy crust and juicy interior. Unlike American burgers, these meat patties are served without a bun and are often paired with mustard, potato salad, or fresh greens. Their simplicity, combined with robust flavors, makes them a beloved dish across generations.
This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Whether served hot with a side of mashed potatoes or enjoyed cold as a snack, Frikadellen never fail to satisfy. A true taste of German tradition, these savory meat patties are guaranteed to be a hit at any table!
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef and pork mix
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
- Sauté Onions: In a small pan, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onions, mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Combine gently to avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into equal-sized patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- Cook the Frikadellen: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Drain & Serve: Remove the Frikadellen from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with mustard or a fresh side salad.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
🔥 Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4
Authentic German Frikadellen – A Traditional Favorite
What Are Frikadellen?
Frikadellen are classic German meat patties that resemble hamburgers but are typically served without a bun. These delicious, pan-fried patties have been a staple in German cuisine for centuries, enjoyed by families across generations. Made from a mix of ground beef and pork, seasoned with onions, mustard, and spices, they have a rich, savory flavor with a crispy golden crust and a juicy, tender interior.
Unlike American-style burgers, which are often sandwiched between bread, Frikadellen are served as a standalone dish alongside hearty sides like potato salad, mashed potatoes, or fresh bread rolls. They are a popular street food in Germany and are also commonly found at beer gardens and traditional German restaurants.
The History of Frikadellen
The origins of Frikadellen can be traced back to Northern Europe, where similar meat patties were a convenient way to stretch meat supplies and create satisfying meals. While they are most commonly associated with Germany, variations of this dish exist in Denmark (Frikadeller), Sweden (Biffar), and the Netherlands (Gehaktballen).
The name “Frikadellen” is believed to have derived from the French word fricandeau, which refers to a seasoned meat dish. Over time, the German version evolved into the pan-fried meat patties we know today. This dish gained popularity due to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to be prepared in large batches for gatherings or meal prep.
Why Frikadellen Are So Popular
Frikadellen are a beloved dish in Germany for several reasons:
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of ground meat, spices, and crispy texture makes them an ideal comfort food.
- Easy to Prepare: The recipe requires simple ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens.
- Versatile: They can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them perfect for meal prepping, picnics, or lunchboxes.
- Customizable: While the traditional recipe calls for beef and pork, variations include chicken, turkey, or vegetarian versions.
- Pairs Well with Many Side Dishes: From creamy mashed potatoes to fresh salads, Frikadellen can be adapted to different tastes and occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Frikadellen are highly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Some popular accompaniments include:
- German Potato Salad: A warm or cold potato salad dressed in a tangy mustard-based vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of Frikadellen.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of butter make a comforting side dish.
- Crispy Bread Rolls: Many Germans enjoy Frikadellen inside a crusty roll, much like a sandwich, with mustard or pickles.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple cucumber or mixed greens salad provides a refreshing contrast to the savory patties.
- Sauerkraut: The tangy and slightly sour flavor of sauerkraut complements the hearty meat patties perfectly.
- Mustard or Dips: Frikadellen are commonly served with Dijon or spicy German mustard for extra flavor. Some people also enjoy them with ketchup or a creamy dipping sauce.
Variations of Frikadellen
Although the classic Frikadellen recipe uses a mix of beef and pork, there are several variations that cater to different dietary needs and flavor preferences:
- All-Beef Frikadellen: Made entirely with ground beef, these patties are slightly leaner but still juicy.
- Turkey or Chicken Frikadellen: A lighter alternative for those looking to reduce fat content.
- Vegetarian Frikadellen: Made with mashed beans, lentils, or mushrooms, these patties offer a plant-based alternative while maintaining the traditional seasonings.
- Spicy Frikadellen: Adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños can give the patties an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused Frikadellen: Fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme can be incorporated to add an aromatic twist.
- Cheese-Stuffed Frikadellen: A hidden pocket of melted cheese inside the patty adds extra indulgence.
Tips for Making the Best Frikadellen
To achieve the perfect Frikadellen, follow these expert tips:
- Use a Meat Mixture: The combination of beef and pork provides the best flavor and texture. Pork adds moisture, while beef gives structure.
- Sauté the Onions First: Cooking the onions before adding them to the meat mixture enhances their sweetness and prevents a raw onion taste.
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mixing the ingredients too much can make the patties dense and tough. Gently combine everything until just incorporated.
- Let the Mixture Rest: Allowing the meat mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes helps the flavors blend and makes shaping the patties easier.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: Using medium heat ensures that the patties develop a crispy crust without burning while staying juicy inside.
- Drain on Paper Towels: After frying, placing the Frikadellen on paper towels helps remove excess oil.
Storing and Reheating Frikadellen
Frikadellen are great for meal prepping because they store well and reheat beautifully.
- Refrigeration: Store cooked Frikadellen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Frikadellen can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy exterior, or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is also an option, though it may soften the crust.
Conclusion
Frikadellen are a timeless German dish that showcases the country’s love for hearty, flavorful, and simple meals. Whether served as a main course with sides or enjoyed as a quick snack, these meat patties never fail to impress. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make them a must-try for anyone looking to explore authentic German cuisine.
Whether you’re cooking them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or trying a new international dish, Frikadellen are a fantastic choice. With so many variations and serving options, they can be tailored to suit any taste. If you haven’t tried making them yet, now is the perfect time to bring a taste of Germany into your kitchen!