Authentic German Frikadellen: Easy and Delicious Meatballs Recipe

The first time I tasted authentic German Frikadellen was at my friend’s grandmother’s kitchen in Bavaria. The aroma of sizzling meat patties filled the room, and I knew I was about to experience something special. These weren’t just any meatballs – they were Frikadellen, a beloved German dish that combines ground meat with expert seasoning and perfect cooking technique for an irresistible comfort food experience.

After years of perfecting my own version of this German classic, I’m excited to share my authentic Frikadellen recipe that captures the heart and soul of traditional German cooking. These versatile meat patties are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love These German Frikadellen

  • Authentic flavor: Traditional German seasoning creates the perfect taste experience
  • Versatile serving options: Enjoy hot, cold, as a main dish, or in sandwiches
  • Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have
  • Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep and even better the next day
  • Family favorite: Beloved by both children and adults
  • No special equipment needed: Just a bowl, your hands, and a skillet

Ingredients for Authentic German Frikadellen

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 small onion, very finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons German mustard (or Dijon)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground marjoram (or oregano)
  • 2–3 tablespoons butter and vegetable oil for frying

Authentic German Frikadellen served with mustard and potatoes

How to Make German meat patties

Prepare the Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork for the perfect fat and flavor balance.
  2. Add finely diced onion and minced garlic.
  3. Mix in the egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, and mustard.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram.
  5. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the mixture to firm up.

Shape and Cook the Frikadellen

  1. With damp hands, form the meat mixture into patties about 3/4-inch thick and 3–4 inches wide.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a mix of butter and vegetable oil.
  3. Place patties in the skillet, spacing them well apart.
  4. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through to 160°F (71°C).
  5. Drain on paper towels and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions for German meat patties

Traditional German Meal

Serve hot with potato salad, sauerkraut, or pan-fried potatoes. Add German mustard on the side.

Frikadellen Sandwich (Brötchen mit Frikadelle)

Serve cold in a crusty roll with mustard for a classic German lunch.

Modern Twists

Use as protein in grain bowls, crumble into pasta sauces, or pair with a green salad.

How to Store German meat patties

Refrigeration

Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens overnight.

Freezing

Freeze cooled Frikadellen in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Store up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or oven. Microwave if needed, though the texture may soften.

Recipe Variations

  • Bread-soaked version: Use soaked bread rolls instead of breadcrumbs
  • Additional herbs: Try chopped chives or a touch of nutmeg
  • Vegetable additions: Add grated carrot or zucchini
  • Leaner version: Use only ground beef or turkey for a lighter option

FAQs About German Frikadellen

What’s the difference between Frikadellen and regular meatballs?

Frikadellen are larger, flatter, pan-fried patties with distinct German seasoning.

Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time for a party?

Yes. Prep the mixture a day in advance or cook them fully and serve warm or at room temperature.

What if I can’t find ground pork?

You can use all ground beef, but choose a blend with more fat to maintain juiciness.

Are Frikadellen gluten-free?

Not traditionally, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and mustard to adapt the recipe.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The crust won’t be quite the same, but they’ll still taste great.

Tips for Perfect German Frikadellen

  • Finely dice onions for flavor and moisture
  • Use damp hands to shape the patties
  • Test seasoning with a mini patty before forming the batch
  • Cook on medium heat for a golden crust without burning
  • Don’t press the patties while cooking to retain moisture

Related Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more savory favorites? Try these reader-loved recipes from Dana Recipes:

Final Thoughts on German Frikadellen

These authentic German Frikadellen bring the warmth and tradition of Bavarian cooking into your home. They turn simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying and full of character.

Whether served hot off the skillet or packed for lunch the next day, Frikadellen are a delicious way to explore German cuisine. I hope this recipe helps you create new family memories and maybe even start your own kitchen tradition.

Give them a try and see how quickly they become a staple in your home. No need to travel—Germany is just a skillet away.

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Authentic German Frikadellen served with mustard and potatoes

Authentic German Frikadellen: Easy and Delicious Meatballs Recipe


  • Author: Dana
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 6 patties 1x

Description

These Authentic German Frikadellen are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Bavaria or discovering this German favorite for the first time, this easy recipe will bring traditional comfort to your table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 small onion, very finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons German mustard (or Dijon)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground marjoram (or oregano)
  • 23 tablespoons butter and vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine beef and pork. Add onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, and mustard. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram. Mix gently to combine. Chill for 30 minutes.
  2. With damp hands, form into patties about 3/4-inch thick and 3–4 inches wide.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat with butter and oil. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (160°F).
  4. Drain on paper towels. Let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

Store cooked Frikadellen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in skillet or oven for best texture. Great hot or cold, and delicious in sandwiches or grain bowls.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 patty
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Frikadellen, German meatballs, authentic German food, beef and pork patties, easy German dinner

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