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Classic German Frikadellen

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Classic German Frikadellen are juicy, seasoned beef patties with a crispy crust, perfect for a hearty dinner. This easy recipe uses simple pantry staples and comes together quickly for a comforting meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) breadcrumbs (fresh or dried, panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried marjoram (or oregano)
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying, sunflower oil preferred)
  • Butter (optional, for frying)

Instructions

  1. Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic if using. Chop parsley.
  2. Measure out breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram, and nutmeg.
  4. Mix gently with clean hands or a fork until just combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs; if too dry, splash in a bit more milk.
  5. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions (about 3 oz each). Shape each into a thick oval or round patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Let shaped patties rest in the fridge for 10 minutes (optional, but recommended for firmer patties).
  7. Heat a heavy skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add vegetable oil and a small knob of butter (optional). Wait until the oil shimmers.
  8. Add patties to the pan, leaving space between them. Cook 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until deep golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 160°F).
  9. Transfer cooked Frikadellen to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest 2-3 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve hot, warm, or cold as desired.

Notes

For extra juiciness, use an 80/20 beef blend. Resting the patties before frying helps them hold together. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and dairy-free milk can be substituted. Patties freeze well for up to 2 months. Serve with potato salad, mashed potatoes, or sauerkraut for a traditional meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Frikadellen, German beef patties, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef, classic German recipe, family meal, skillet, hearty, quick dinner

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/classic-german-frikadellen-recipe-easy-hearty-beef-patties-for-dinner/