Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe (German Hamburgers) Your Family Will Love!

This delicious Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe (German Hamburgers) comes together in about 30 minutes and is made using just a skillet for a quick weeknight dinner that your family will love! These flavor-loaded patties are versatile enough to switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or serve as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal, perfect for using up those odds and ends. Believe me; this is going to be a go-to recipe in your house in no time!

Simplifying Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe absolutely irresistible! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb ground beef and pork mix

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Putting It All Together: How to Make Frikadellen

Step 1: Sauté Those Aromatics

In a small pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they’re softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. The smells wafting through your kitchen should have your family wandering in, curious about what’s cooking! Once done, let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onions, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together gently, no need to overwork the meat! You’re aiming for a nice, cohesive mixture that retains its juiciness.

Step 3: Shape Your Patties

Now it’s patty time! Form the meat mixture into equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick. You want them to be uniform so they cook at the same rate. Just a heads up, wet your hands a little to prevent sticking, it’s a trick that really helps!

Step 4: Fry Them Up!

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, this means it’s hot and ready, carefully add the patties. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Don’t rush this! The nice brown crust to develop is what gives it that incredible flavor.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

When your Frikadellen are ready, remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels. They’ll look gorgeous and golden! Serve them warm, perhaps with some tangy mustard, fresh salads, or on a bun like a true German hamburger. The best part is you can use whatever toppings your family enjoys!

German Frikadellen

Personal Touch: Why I Love This Recipe

This is my go-to recipe when I’m in a pinch for a quick dinner! My family adores the flavor and heartiness of these Frikadellen, they’re comfort food in its finest hour! And honestly? I’m a real sucker for dishes that let me clean out the fridge. You can use whatever you’ve got on hand, and the best part is, these patties never fail to impress!

If you loved this Frikadellen recipe, be sure to check out my Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers, my Homemade Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza, or my Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

Comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. And when you’re racing against the clock? It’s a total lifesaver!

Customizable

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily mix and match spices, herbs, or even the type of meat used depending on your family’s preferences and what’s available to you.

Comfort Food

These patties are loaded with tons of flavor, capturing the essence of hearty German cuisine. Each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen, comfort food at its best!

Budget-Friendly

Using affordable, everyday ingredients, this recipe is gentle on your wallet while providing a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Meal Prep Friendly

Make a big batch on Sunday for easy grabs during the week. Pop them in the fridge or freezer, and you have meals ready to go!

Serving and Storage Tips

How to Serve This Frikadellen

These patties are amazing on their own, but they really shine when paired with a fresh side salad or on a warm bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mustard or mayo.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh and delicious, try to cool them down completely before sealing.

Reheating Instructions

The best method to reheat your Frikadellen is in a skillet over medium heat, just until heated through, about 3-5 minutes per side. This way, they’ll remain crispy outside and tender inside!

Freezer Friendly

Yes! You can also freeze the uncooked patties. Just lay them on a baking sheet until solid and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and proceed as usual.

Get ready, because this Authentic German Frikadellen recipe will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Enjoy every mouthful of these delicious patties, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or lunch packed with flavor! Happy cooking! Follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration that brings warmth to your table!

German Frikadellen

German Hamburgers

This authentic German Frikadellen recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight dinner your family will love!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: German
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef and pork mix Using a mix gives the best flavor and juiciness.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Crushed crackers or stale bread soaked in milk can be a great substitute.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder; use a flaxseed egg if egg allergies are a concern.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Feel free to substitute with cilantro or dried herbs.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional) Gives a nice depth; can be left out.
  • Vegetable oil Use for frying.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they’re softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onions, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Mix everything together gently, aiming for a nice cohesive mixture.
  4. Form the meat mixture into equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick, and wet your hands to prevent sticking.
Cooking
  1. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the patties.
  2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Remove the Frikadellen from the pan and let them drain on paper towels.
Serving
  1. Serve the Frikadellen warm, perhaps with some tangy mustard, fresh salads, or on a bun.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat about 3-5 minutes per side. You can also freeze uncooked patties for about 3 months.

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