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Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe (German Hamburgers) Recipe

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5 from 150 reviews

This authentic German Frikadellen recipe features flavorful German-style meat patties made from a mix of ground beef and pork, combined with sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs. These pan-fried patties deliver a deliciously juicy and savory experience, perfect as a main dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

  • 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)

For Cooking

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a small pan, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to prevent cooking the egg when mixed.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork mix with the breadcrumbs, egg, cooled sautéed onions, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
  3. Shape Patties: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape each into a patty approximately 3/4 inch thick. Ensuring uniform size helps them cook evenly.
  4. Fry Patties: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until the patties are golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside.
  5. Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked Frikadellen from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

  • To keep Frikadellen juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
  • Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or oat flakes for a different texture.
  • These patties freeze well; freeze uncooked shaped patties for up to one month and cook directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to cook time.
  • Serve with mustard, pickles, or a side of potato salad for a classic German meal.