Name: Frikadellen (German Meat Patties)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tsp mustard (preferably German-style); 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp oil or butter for frying

Frikadellen (German Meat Patties) are juicy, pan-fried German-style meat patties made with ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, and spices. These hearty patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Whether I’m planning a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, Frikadellen always hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to make Frikadellen with simple pantry ingredients. The combination of soaked breadcrumbs and egg keeps the patties moist and flavorful, while the paprika and mustard add a subtle warmth that brings everything together. It’s a traditional German comfort food that doesn’t take long to prepare but tastes like a dish that’s been simmering in tradition for generations.

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 clove garlic, minced

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

1 tbsp chopped parsley

1 tsp mustard (preferably German-style)

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp oil or butter for frying

Directions

I soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until they soften.

In a large bowl, I mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, mustard, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.

I make sure not to overmix the meat mixture so the patties stay tender.

Then I shape the mixture into 6 to 8 oval-shaped patties.

I heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through.

After cooking, I let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The total time to prepare and cook is around 30 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. Each serving is approximately 285 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap out the ground beef for a mix of beef and pork to give the patties extra richness. For a slightly different flavor, I’ve also added a pinch of nutmeg or used Dijon mustard when I didn’t have German-style mustard on hand. If I want a low-carb version, I use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I place the cooked patties in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When I reheat them, I usually warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispiness, or I use the oven at 300°F for about 10–15 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months — I just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

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FAQs

What are Frikadellen made of?

Frikadellen are made from ground meat (typically beef or a beef-pork mix), soaked breadcrumbs, onions, egg, and seasonings like mustard and paprika.

Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the patties a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. I just fry them fresh when I’m ready to eat.

What do I serve with Frikadellen?

I usually serve Frikadellen with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, or a simple salad. They’re also great in a sandwich or with a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I bake Frikadellen instead of frying?

Yes, I’ve baked them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They don’t get as crispy but still taste delicious.

Are Frikadellen the same as meatballs?

They’re similar but larger and flatter than traditional meatballs. Frikadellen are more like small meatloaves or burgers and usually pan-fried.

Conclusion

Frikadellen are a cozy, satisfying dish that brings traditional German flavor to the dinner table with minimal effort. I love how customizable they are, and they always turn out tender and delicious. Whether I’m feeding my family or prepping meals for the week, these patties never disappoint.

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