As the leaves begin to change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts turn to one thing: Oktoberfest! The ultimate celebration of German culture, food, and drink is just around the corner, and we’re excited to bring you 20 savory Oktoberfest recipes to make your festive feast truly unforgettable. From classic bratwurst with mustard sauce to beer-marinated grilled chicken thighs, and from crispy onion rings to traditional Bavarian pretzel bites with beer cheese dip, our recipe roundup has something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a full-blown party, these recipes will help you create an atmosphere that’s as warm and cozy as a Munich beer hall on a chilly October evening. So grab your lederhosen, dust off your stein, and get ready to taste the flavors of Germany with our ultimate Oktoberfest recipe guide!
Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip
A twist on classic pretzels, these bite-sized treats combine the savory flavor of beer cheese dip with the softness of freshly baked pretzels.
Ingredients:
For the Pretzels:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Beer Cheese Dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup beer (any type)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and sugar; mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 10-12 minutes, until smooth.
5. Divide into 8 equal pieces; shape each into a ball.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, beer, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika in a bowl.
8. Serve pretzels warm with Beer Cheese Dip.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Traditional German Bratwurst with Mustard Sauce
Experience the authentic flavors of Germany with this classic bratwurst recipe, served with a tangy mustard sauce. Perfect for Oktoberfest celebrations or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 traditional German bratwurst (pork and veal)
– 1/2 cup beer
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mustard sauce (see below)
– 4 buns
Mustard Sauce:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill bratwurst for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine beer, caraway seeds, onion, and garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the bratwurst with sliced buns and spoon some of the beer-onion mixture on top.
5. Serve with mustard sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Soft Pretzels with Spicy Beer Mustard
Satisfy your cravings with these soft and buttery pretzels, elevated by a tangy and spicy beer mustard.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Spicy Beer Mustard (recipe below)
Spicy Beer Mustard:
– 1/2 cup beer mustard
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into a pretzel shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush with beaten egg for an egg wash.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve:
Brush warm pretzels with Spicy Beer Mustard (recipe above) and enjoy!
Crispy Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Transform ordinary onion rings into extraordinary crispy treats infused with the flavor of beer! This recipe yields a perfect snack for your next gathering or sports event.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup beer (any type), chilled
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Pour the chilled beer into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the beer, coating both sides evenly, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated ring on a plate or tray.
4. Repeat the dipping process with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
6. Fry the onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm, sprinkled with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Potato Salad with Bacon and Vinegar Dressing
A classic German potato salad recipe with a smoky twist from the addition of crispy bacon, tangy vinegar dressing, and a hint of mustard. Perfect for picnics or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked potatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped parsley or chives (if using) to the bowl.
5. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Schnitzel with Lemon and Caper Sauce
Elevate your schnitzel game with this bright and citrusy twist! Tenderized pork cutlets are breaded to perfection and served with a tangy lemon and caper sauce that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon and Caper Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each pork cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured cutlet in the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Roll cutlet in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry breaded cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Lemon and Caper Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve with schnitzel and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for the schnitzel and an additional 5-7 minutes for the lemon and caper sauce.
Beer and Cheddar Soup with Pretzel Croutons
Rich and creamy beer-based soup gets a delightful twist with the addition of sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy pretzel croutons. Perfect for a cozy evening or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (any style)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pretzel rods, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add beer, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss pretzel pieces with butter; spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve soup hot, topped with warm pretzel croutons.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oktoberfest Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
Celebrate the flavors of Germany with this hearty skillet recipe that combines juicy sausages, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Oktoberfest-style sausage (such as Bratwurst or Knockwurst), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the sauerkraut, diced potato, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to distribute evenly.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Pork Knuckle with Crackling Skin
Roasted Pork Knuckle with Crackling Skin Recipe
A classic dish that’s sure to impress, this roasted pork knuckle recipe yields a tender and juicy interior surrounded by crispy, crackling skin. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) pork knuckle
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the pork knuckle and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the pork knuckle, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the pork knuckle in a roasting pan and roast for 2 hours.
6. After 2 hours, reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Warm German Potato Pancakes with Applesauce
Warm German Potato Pancakes with Applesauce Recipe
Cozy up with a classic German treat that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting snack any time of the year. These warm potato pancakes are served with a sweet and tangy applesauce, making them a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Butter or oil for frying
– Applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add milk and beaten egg; mix until smooth.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of butter or oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with applesauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (10-12 minutes per batch)
Beer-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken thighs. A simple marinade infused with beer and herbs brings out the juiciest, most flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup beer (any style, but lager or pilsner work best)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together beer, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Add chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated in the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (6-8 hours).
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes total
Bavarian Cream Puffs with Vanilla Custard
Experience the classic combination of crispy puff pastry and creamy vanilla custard in these indulgent treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (16 oz) puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for expansion.
5. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten eggs mixed with sugar and salt).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow puffs to cool completely before filling with vanilla custard.
Vanilla Custard:
1. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Assembly:
1. Fill cooled puffs with chilled vanilla custard.
2. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) before serving.
Caramelized Onion and Beer Soup
Rich and savory, this soup combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the crispness of beer, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting soup that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup beer (any style)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until dark golden brown.
2. Add the butter, garlic, beer, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
German-Style Soft Pretzel Rolls
These soft, buttery pretzels are a staple of German bakeries and perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes. With this simple recipe, you can create these delicious treats in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup pretzel salt
– Sesame seeds or pretzel topping of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, flour, and pretzel salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into a rope shape.
5. Twist the ropes into pretzel shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or your desired topping.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Smoked Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Apples
Smoked Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Apples: A harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your pork chops to a whole new level!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can also use liquid smoke.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sauerkraut, onion, garlic, apple cider, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in the smoker, close the lid, and let them cook for 4-5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. After 2 hours, brush the pork chops with the sauerkraut mixture every 30 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (including resting time)
Beer-Braised Beef Short Ribs
Transform tender short ribs into a fall-apart masterpiece with this easy recipe that combines the depth of beer, onions, and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add garlic, beer, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Homemade Obatzda (German Cheese Spread)
A classic German cheese spread that’s creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this beloved snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 250g Emmental or Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated cheese, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and chopped chives.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve with crackers, bread, or veggies for a satisfying snack.
Cooking Time: None! This spread is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your homemade Obatzda!
Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Classic apple strudel is a staple of German cuisine, and when paired with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream, it’s the perfect treat for any time of year. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky pastry filled with tender apples and topped with a crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below)
– Cinnamon whipped cream (recipe below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and mix with sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Spread streusel topping evenly over the apple mixture.
4. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Prepare cinnamon whipped cream according to recipe below.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
German Chocolate Cake with Beer-Infused Frosting
Elevate the classic German chocolate cake recipe by incorporating the rich flavors of beer into a decadent frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons beer (dark or brown ale works well)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frosting:
1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, confectioners’ sugar, beer, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add melted chocolate to the butter mixture; mix until smooth.
4. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting between layers and top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes per cake layer
Oktoberfest-Style Mustard-Glazed Ham
Oktoberfest-Style Mustard-Glazed Ham: A sweet and tangy twist on traditional ham recipes, perfect for your Oktoberfest celebration!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain), plus more for serving
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan or large Dutch oven, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest with these savory recipes! From traditional German dishes like bratwurst and schnitzel, to modern twists like beer-marinated chicken and caramelized onion soup, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade soft pretzels or crispy beer-battered onion rings as a snack, or go all out with a hearty Oktoberfest sausage and sauerkraut skillet. And don’t forget the desserts – apple strudel and German chocolate cake are sure to be crowd-pleasers. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a festive feast that will leave your guests cheering “Prost!”
