These Frikadellen (German Meat Patties) are juicy, pan-fried German meat patties that I love making when I want something comforting, filling, and easy. They come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients and always remind me of classic home-style European cooking that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for relaxed family meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or German-style)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon oil or butter, for frying
Directions
I start by soaking the breadcrumbs in the milk for about five minutes so they soften properly. While they soak, I finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. I mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Next, I shape the mixture into six to eight oval patties, keeping them about three-quarters of an inch thick so they cook evenly.
I heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the patties for four to five minutes per side. Once they are golden brown and cooked through, I transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
I like serving them hot with mustard, potatoes, or a simple side salad.
Servings and Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve four people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: about 285 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes mix ground pork with the beef for a richer flavor. When I want extra warmth, I add a pinch of nutmeg or marjoram. For a lighter version, I swap part of the beef with ground turkey and adjust the seasoning slightly.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I prefer warming them in a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy, though the microwave works well for quick meals.
FAQs
Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare and shape the patties a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until I am ready to cook.
Can I freeze these meat patties?
I freeze them either raw or cooked. I separate them with parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.
What can I serve with Frikadellen?
I like serving them with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, cucumber salad, or crusty bread with mustard.
Why are my patties falling apart?
This usually happens when there is not enough binder. I make sure the breadcrumbs are well-soaked and the mixture is mixed thoroughly.
Can I bake Frikadellen instead of frying?
Yes, I bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning.
Conclusion
I find Frikadellen (German Meat Patties) to be one of those reliable recipes that never disappoint. They are simple, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors that work for any occasion. Whether I cook them for dinner, lunch, or meal prep, they always earn a place in my regular rotation.
📖 Recipe:
Frikadellen (German Meat Patties)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy, pan-fried German meat patties made with ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, and savory spices. These classic Frikadellen are comforting, flavorful, and perfect for easy family meals.
Ingredients
½ lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 tablespoon Dijon or German-style mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon oil or butter, for frying
Instructions
- Soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into 6–8 oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil and serve hot.
Notes
Mix gently but thoroughly to avoid dense patties.
You can substitute part of the beef with ground pork or turkey.
Add nutmeg or marjoram for a more traditional German flavor.
These patties are great served with potatoes, salad, or bread with mustard.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 patties)
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
