Frikadeller(Danish Meat Balls)
Frikadeller are tender Danish meatballs, seasoned with onion, salt, and pepper, then browned and simmered in gravy—perfect for hearty, comforting meals enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground round beef, ground pork, grated fried onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Brown the meatballs in butter in a skillet.
- Add a little hot water while simmering until they are cooked through.
- Serve with brown gravy made from the drippings.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of regular flour. To enhance the flavor, add herbs like thyme or parsley to the mixture. Frying the onion until caramelized brings out its sweetness, which complements the meatballs beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Frikadeller with brown gravy made from the drippings, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic Danish meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider adding a side of pickles, such as Kay'S Pickles, to complement the rich flavors. These meatballs also pair well with a simple salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. To reheat, simmer gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth until warmed through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frikadeller(Danish Meat Balls) contains roughly 647 calories, with 39g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use only ground beef if you prefer. However, the combination of beef and pork adds a richer flavor and more moisture to the meatballs. If using just beef, consider adding a bit of extra fat, like bacon or ground beef with higher fat content.
What can I serve with Frikadeller?
Frikadeller pairs beautifully with roasted or boiled potatoes, and a side of pickled vegetables adds a nice tangy contrast. For a heartier meal, serve them with a creamy sauce, like Southern-Style Brisket Sauce, and a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Form the meatballs and cook them just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Alternatively, fully cook them and freeze for an easy meal later.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).