There’s nothing like a hearty German dinner to warm the soul. With its rich flavors, comforting textures, and satisfying portions, it’s no wonder that German cuisine has become a beloved staple around the world. Whether you’re looking for a classic dish like Sauerbraten or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 Hearty German Dinner Recipes.
From tender pork schnitzel to savory lentil stew, each of these recipes is designed to fill your belly and leave you feeling satisfied. So go ahead, grab a fork, and dig in! In this article, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and delicious German dinner recipes out there, from classic comfort foods to modern twists on traditional dishes.
Sauerbraten with Red Cabbage and Dumplings
This hearty stew is a staple of German cuisine, made with tender beef, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet red cabbage. Serve it with fluffy dumplings for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast
– 1 cup sauerkraut
– 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine beef, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, vinegar, and caraway seeds.
2. Cover and simmer for 3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings by mixing flour, egg, milk, and salt. Knead and roll into small balls.
4. Add the dumplings to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
5. Serve the Sauerbraten hot, with red cabbage sautéed in butter until caramelized, and dumplings on top.
Cooking Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce
This classic German dish combines the flavors of spicy bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy mustard sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for Oktoberfest or any occasion that calls for a comforting, flavorful feast.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bratwurst sausages
– 1 cup Sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon Caraway Seeds
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: 4 Hoagie rolls or buns
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook the Bratwurst sausages according to package instructions until browned and cooked through.
2. In a large skillet, combine Sauerkraut, Mustard, Brown Sugar, Caraway Seeds, Salt, and Pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the Sauerkraut is heated through and slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Slice the cooked Bratwurst sausages into thick rounds.
4. Serve the Bratwurst with the warm Sauerkraut-Mustard sauce spooned over the top. Optional: Place each sausage on a Hoagie roll or bun and spoon the sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Schnitzel with Lemon and Parsley Potatoes
This classic German dish gets a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon and parsley potatoes. A simple yet impressive main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Dip each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess, then in egg mixture (beaten egg mixed with milk), and finally in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry schnitzel for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss potato slices with lemon juice and chopped parsley. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
6. Serve schnitzel hot with roasted potatoes and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef Rouladen with Spätzle and Gravy
This classic recipe combines tender beef rolls, homemade spätzle noodles, and a rich gravy for a satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef round steak
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup spätzle noodle dough (see below)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Gravy:
+ 2 cups beef broth
+ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the beef into thin strips and pound each strip into a thin sheet.
3. Mix chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper in the center of each beef sheet.
4. Roll up the beef tightly and secure with toothpicks.
5. Cook spätzle noodles according to package instructions (or make from scratch).
6. In a large skillet, cook the beef rolls over medium heat until browned on all sides.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Prepare gravy by whisking together broth and flour in a small bowl; add to the skillet with the cooked beef rolls.
9. Simmer the gravy for 5 minutes, then serve over spätzle noodles.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Königsberger Klopse (German Meatballs in Caper Sauce)
In this classic German dish, juicy meatballs are smothered in a tangy caper sauce, perfect for serving with potatoes, noodles, or crusty bread. This hearty recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 100ml all-purpose flour
– 200ml beef broth
– 50ml white wine (optional)
– 20g capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour, beef broth, white wine (if using), and capers.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
7. Serve meatballs in the caper sauce, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kasseler (Smoked Pork Chops) with Sauerkraut and Mashed Potatoes
This hearty German-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of smoked pork chops, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sauerkraut, caraway seeds, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast pork chops for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While pork is cooking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk (if using).
6. Serve sauerkraut mixture alongside roasted pork chops and mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Lentil Stew with Sausages
Savor the hearty flavors of Germany with this comforting lentil stew, perfectly paired with plump sausages.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 German-style sausages (such as Bratwurst or Weisswurst)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, water, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the sausages until cooked through.
5. Serve the stew hot, topped with sliced sausages and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Schweinshaxe (Crispy Pork Knuckle) with Beer Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of German cuisine with this mouthwatering Schweinshaxe recipe, featuring a crispy pork knuckle served with a savory beer-based gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) pork knuckle
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups beer
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip pork knuckle into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Melt butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Sear pork knuckle until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer pot to preheated oven and roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until meat is tender and crispy.
6. While the pork is cooking, combine beer, brown sugar, onion, and garlic in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Remove pork from oven and brush with beer gravy.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Kartoffelpuffer (German Potato Pancakes) with Applesauce
These crispy potato pancakes are a classic German treat, typically served as a snack or side dish. Paired with a sweet and tangy applesauce, they make for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Applesauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, chopped onion, egg, and flour. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly.
4. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm with applesauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Hasenpfeffer (Braised Rabbit Stew)
In the heart of Germany’s rustic cuisine, Hasenpfeffer is a beloved classic that showcases tender rabbit meat in a rich and flavorful broth. This slow-cooked stew is perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg rabbit pieces (thighs, legs, and shoulders)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the rabbit pieces, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and allspice. Stir to combine.
4. Return rabbit to pot; season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Leberkäse (German Meatloaf) with Fried Eggs and Potato Salad
Satisfy your cravings with this classic German dish featuring tender Leberkäse (meatloaf) served with a fried egg and creamy potato salad. This comforting meal is perfect for a weekend brunch or a casual dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Leberkäse:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fried Eggs:
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potato Salad:
– 4-6 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Fry eggs in a pan with oil until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
5. Boil potatoes until tender, then chill. Mix with mayonnaise, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve Leberkäse with fried egg and potato salad.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Goulash Soup with Fresh Bread
Savor a taste of Eastern Europe with this rich and comforting goulash soup, served with a warm and crusty loaf of fresh bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound beef cubes (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh bread crumbs for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef cubes; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot with fresh bread crumbs on top.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including browning time)
Currywurst with Pommes (Curry Sausage with Fries)
Enjoy a classic German street food experience with this simple recipe for Currywurst with Pommes (Curry Sausage with Fries).
Ingredients:
– 1 sausage of your choice (e.g., Bratwurst or Knockwurst)
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4-6 potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: mustard, ketchup, or chopped fresh parsley for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the curry powder and vegetable oil.
3. Grill or cook the sausage according to package instructions until browned.
4. Meanwhile, place the potato fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat.
5. Bake the fries in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve the curry-coated sausage with the Pommes (fries) and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frikadellen (German Pan-Fried Meat Patties) with Beetroot Salad
Frikadellen are traditional German meat patties that can be enjoyed as a snack or main course. Pair them with a refreshing beetroot salad for a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
For the Frikadellen:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Beetroot Salad:
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, egg, flour, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into patties.
3. Heat about 1 cm of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the Frikadellen for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine beetroot slices, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to coat.
5. Serve the Frikadellen hot with the Beetroot Salad on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including frying time)
Käsespätzle (German Cheese Noodles) with Caramelized Onions
Käsespätzle (German Cheese Noodles) with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Käsespätzle is a classic German dish that combines soft, buttery noodles with melted cheese and sweet caramelized onions. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spätzle noodles
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Emmental or Gruyère cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the spätzle noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Preheat the broiler.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine the remaining 1 tbsp of butter and grated cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
5. Combine the cooked noodles, caramelized onions, and cheese mixture in a large serving dish. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Rinderbraten (German Pot Roast) with Horseradish Sauce
Rinderbraten, a traditional German pot roast, is a comforting dish that warms the hearts and bellies of many. This recipe combines tender beef brisket with a tangy horseradish sauce for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef brisket
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup horseradish sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef brisket on all sides.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with horseradish sauce spooned over the top, garnished with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Grünkohl mit Pinkel (Kale Stew with Smoked Sausage)
A hearty and flavorful German-inspired stew, perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of kale with the savory richness of smoked sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 2 smoked sausages (such as Pinkel or Weiswurst), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced smoked sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kale to the pot, stirring well to combine with the other ingredients.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zwiebelrostbraten (Beef with Onion Gravy) and Rösti
This hearty dish is a staple of German cuisine, featuring tender beef cooked to perfection in a rich onion gravy, served with crispy rösti potatoes.
Ingredients:
For the Beef with Onion Gravy:
– 1.5 lbs beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rösti:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season beef with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, cook the onions over medium heat until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Add garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and paprika to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Sear the beef in the pot, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add grated potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden, about 15 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (beef) + 15 minutes (rösti)
Summary
Get ready for a taste of Germany with these 18 hearty dinner recipes! From classic dishes like Sauerbraten with Red Cabbage and Dumplings to comforting favorites like Pork Schnitzel with Lemon and Parsley Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Explore the flavors of Germany with Beef Rouladen, Königsberger Klopse (meatballs), and Schweinshaxe (crispy pork knuckle). Even veggie lovers will find something to enjoy in German Lentil Stew with Sausages. Discover these authentic recipes and cozy up for a comforting evening with the flavors of Germany.
