Authentic Frikadellen (German Meatball Patties)
Authentic Frikadellen are savory German meatball patties made from a mix of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices, onions, and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection. These versatile patties can be enjoyed hot or cold, served with sides like mashed potatoes or sauerkraut, or in a fresh bread roll.
Servings: 4
Calories: 373kcal
Ingredients
- ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ lbs ground pork
- 1 large onion very finely diced
- 1 clove garlic optional, finely minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons milk you may need slightly more or less
- 2 teaspoons mustard preferably German or Dijon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- pinch of freshly grated nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: Soak the breadcrumbs in milk until fully absorbed to ensure the Frikadellen stay moist.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté the onion with a bit of lard or butter until soft and translucent. Add the garlic for the last 60 seconds of cooking time. Allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled onion and garlic, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well, preferably with your hands, to evenly distribute the ingredients. Once mixed, add the ground beef and pork and mix until thoroughly combined. Do not overmix at this stage after the meat has been added.
- Form Patties: With wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into flattened meatball patties as in the photos. This amount should yield about 6 to 8 patties, depending on their size.
- Cook Frikadellen: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the patties in batches, without crowding the pan, for about 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Ensure an internal temperature of at least 71°C (160°F) for safety.
Notes
Storage: Frikadellen will store very well up to 4 days refrigerated in an airtight container. You can freeze them up to 4 months too.
Nutrition
Calories: 373kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 785mg | Potassium: 436mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 195IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 3mg
