Name: Frikadellen (German Meat Patties)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tablespoon mustard (preferably German or Dijon); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional); 1–2 tablespoons oil for frying

Juicy, pan-fried Frikadellen are a traditional German dish made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and simple spices. These savory patties are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and make a hearty meal when served with potatoes, fresh bread, or even a simple side salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

1 tablespoon mustard (preferably German or Dijon)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

1–2 tablespoons oil for frying

Directions

I start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes. This keeps the patties moist and tender.

In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley if I’m using it.

Once the breadcrumbs are soft, I mix them into the meat mixture until everything is evenly combined.

I shape the mixture into 6–8 oval patties using my hands.

In a skillet over medium heat, I heat the oil and add the patties, frying them for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked inside.

I serve them warm with sides like mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or fresh bread and mustard.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 Frikadellen patties.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Each patty contains approximately 290 kcal.

Variations

Sometimes I like to switch things up by mixing half ground pork with the beef for even more flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or caraway seeds gives it a traditional German twist. For a spicier version, I use hot paprika or add a touch of chili flakes. I’ve also made these with gluten-free breadcrumbs and dairy-free milk without any trouble.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either warm them in a skillet over low heat or use the oven at 325°F until heated through. They also freeze well—after cooling, I wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When I want to enjoy one, I reheat it from frozen in a covered pan or let it thaw overnight before warming.

FAQs

What meat can I use besides ground beef?

I often use a mix of beef and pork for a juicier texture, but ground turkey or chicken also work if I’m looking for something leaner.

Can I make Frikadellen in advance?

Yes, I sometimes prepare the patties a few hours ahead or even the night before, then keep them covered in the fridge until I’m ready to cook.

What can I serve with Frikadellen?

I usually go for boiled or mashed potatoes, but they also pair well with roasted vegetables, sauerkraut, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Baking works too—I place them on a baking sheet and cook at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t get as crispy but still taste great.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

I make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly and press the patties firmly into shape. The egg and soaked breadcrumbs help bind everything together.

Conclusion

Frikadellen are one of those humble, satisfying dishes I keep coming back to. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to enjoy in many ways. Whether I’m cooking for a family dinner or making extra for the week, these German-style patties never disappoint.

📖 Recipe:

Frikadellen (German Meat Patties)

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6–8 patties
Diet: Halal

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Description

Juicy, pan-fried Frikadellen are traditional German meat patties made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are a hearty and budget-friendly comfort food.