German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe

Introduction

Discover the hearty flavors of Germany with this authentic Frikadellen recipe, a traditional German hamburger made from a blend of ground beef and pork. These savory patties are perfect for a comforting meal and pair wonderfully with classic sides like sauerkraut or potato salad.

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef
• 250g ground pork
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup stale bread, crust removed and soaked in milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably German)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
2. Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and soaked bread (squeeze out excess milk before adding).
3. Step 3: Add the egg, mustard, black pepper, salt, parsley, and paprika to the meat mixture.
4. Step 4: Use your hands to mix the ingredients gently until well combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the patties tender.
5. Step 5: Form the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter, yielding approximately 8-10 patties.
6. Step 6: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding.
7. Step 7: Fry the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 70°C/160°F).
8. Step 8: Remove the patties and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with traditional sides such as German potato salad, sauerkraut, or fresh rolls.

Tips & Variations

• For a juicier texture, soak the bread in heavy cream instead of milk.
• Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots to the mixture for extra moisture and flavor.
• Serve with a side of mustard for authentic dipping.
• Use a mix of pork shoulder and beef chuck for richer taste.

Storage

Store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Frikadellen without pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork with all beef or even ground turkey for a leaner option, but traditional flavor may vary slightly.

What can I serve with German Frikadellen?

Popular accompaniments include German potato salad, sauerkraut, mustard, or fresh bread rolls. A crisp side salad also pairs well to add freshness.

German Hamburgers Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 143 reviews

This authentic German Frikadellen recipe features flavorful ground beef and pork patties seasoned with mustard, paprika, and fresh herbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection. These traditional German hamburgers are a hearty and comforting dish, perfect served warm with sides like sauerkraut, potato salad, or fresh rolls.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 8–10 patties (serves 4-5) 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: German

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Mixture

• 500g ground beef
• 250g ground pork
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup stale bread, crust removed and soaked in milk (excess milk squeezed out)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably German)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For Frying

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Combine Meat and Aromatics: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and ground pork along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Add Bread and Seasonings: Squeeze out the excess milk from the soaked bread and add it to the bowl. Then add the egg, mustard, ground black pepper, salt, chopped parsley, and paprika.
3. Mix Ingredients: Use your hands to gently mix all ingredients together until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the patties tender.
4. Form Patties: Shape the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 8-10 patties from the mixture.
5. Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
6. Fry Patties: Place the patties carefully in the skillet without overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 70°C/160°F).
7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove cooked frikadellen from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Serve: Serve the frikadellen warm accompanied by traditional sides such as German potato salad, sauerkraut, or fresh rolls.

Notes

• For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 70°C/160°F is reached for food safety.
• Do not overwork the meat mixture to keep the frikadellen tender and juicy.
• Stale bread soaked in milk helps bind the patties and keeps them moist.
• Serve with a side of mustard for an authentic German flavor experience.
• Fresh parsley garnish adds a vibrant touch to the presentation.

Keywords: German Frikadellen, German hamburgers, pan-fried meat patties, traditional German recipe, authentic Frikadellen, beef and pork patties