Frikadellen, often called the “German hamburger,” are savory, pan-fried meat patties that hold a special place in German cuisine. These juicy, flavorful meatballs are made with a blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then seared to perfection with a golden crust. Typically served with mustard, mashed potatoes, or a side salad, Frikadellen are a versatile comfort food loved by families across Germany. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, they’re perfect for a hearty dinner or a packed lunch. Let’s dive into this authentic Frikadellen recipe and bring a taste of Germany to your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Frikadellen (Makes 8 patties, Serves 4):
- 1 pound ground meat (50/50 mix of beef and pork, or all beef)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or German mustard)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram (or 1 tablespoon fresh, finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for frying)
For Serving:
- German mustard or creamy mustard sauce
- Mashed potatoes, potato salad, or a green salad (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for a fresh zing)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Small bowl (for soaking breadcrumbs)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Plate lined with paper towels
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of whole milk. Stir to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened, then let them sit for 5 minutes. This step ensures the Frikadellen stay juicy and tender by preventing the breadcrumbs from absorbing moisture from the meat during cooking.
Why Soak the Breadcrumbs? This creates a “panade,” which keeps the patties soft and moist rather than dense and tough.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the 1 pound of ground meat (beef and pork mix), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (if using), 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Add the soaked breadcrumbs (along with any remaining milk). Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix everything together until well combined, but don’t overwork the mixture—overmixing can make the patties dense.
Flavor Tip: The onion and parsley add freshness, while marjoram gives Frikadellen their classic German taste.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions, about 2–3 ounces each. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and 3 inches wide. Press gently in the center to create a slight indent—this helps the patties cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle. Place the shaped patties on a plate and let them rest for 5–10 minutes to firm up.
Shaping Trick: Wet your hands with water to prevent the meat from sticking while shaping the patties.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking—test by dropping a small piece of the meat mixture into the pan; it should sizzle immediately. The combination of oil and butter ensures a golden crust and rich flavor.
Oil and Butter Combo: The oil prevents the butter from burning, while the butter adds a nutty depth to the Frikadellen.
Step 5: Fry the Frikadellen
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, place 4 patties in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C for pork). Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this squeezes out the juices. Once cooked, transfer the Frikadellen to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties, adding more oil and butter to the pan if needed.
Don’t Overcrowd: Frying in batches keeps the pan hot, ensuring a proper sear without steaming the patties.
Step 6: Serve the Frikadellen
Serve the Frikadellen hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Place a small bowl of German mustard on the side for dipping, or drizzle with a creamy mustard sauce if preferred. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, a tangy potato salad, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a lighter touch, serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the patties, adding a bright, zesty contrast to the savory meat.
Presentation Tip: Stack the Frikadellen on a platter for a family-style meal, with the mustard and sides in rustic bowls nearby.
Serving Suggestions
Frikadellen are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Mustard: A spicy or grainy German mustard is traditional and enhances the savory flavors.
- Potato Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes or a warm German potato salad with bacon and vinegar are classic pairings.
- Bread Roll: Serve Frikadellen in a crusty roll with mustard and pickles for a quick German-style sandwich.
- Cold Option: Frikadellen are often eaten cold the next day—pack them for lunch with a side of mustard and bread.
Tips for Success
- Meat Mix: The beef-pork blend is traditional for balanced flavor and juiciness, but you can use all beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the patties rest before frying helps them hold their shape and cook evenly.
- Freezing Option: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before frying.
- Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to recrisp the exterior, or enjoy cold in a sandwich with mustard and lettuce.
A Final Note
Frikadellen are the epitome of German comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. The process of mixing, shaping, and frying fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of sizzling meat and herbs, while the first bite delivers a perfect balance of crispy crust and juicy interior. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family dinner or packing them for a picnic, this Frikadellen recipe captures the essence of German home cooking. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let’s create a plate of savory, golden patties that’ll warm your heart and soul.