It doesn't have to be Oktoberfest to celebrate German cooking. From schnitzel to apple strudel and more, these authentic German recipes have been passed down through generations of home cooks.

42 Traditional German Recipes and German-Inspired Dishes

Potato Pancakes
Apfelkuchen
Potato Dumplings
Pork Schnitzel
Authentic German Potato Salad
Bavarian Pot Roast
German Red Cabbage
Bratwurst Supper
Almond-Filled Stollen
Spicy Bavarian Beer Mustard
Sauerkraut
Soft Pretzels
Apple Pork Loin
Frikadellen
Sausage Sauerkraut Soup
Raspberry Custard Kuchen
Green Beans with Bacon
Potato Kielbasa Skillet
German Pancakes
Mulled Wine
Slow-Cooker German Potato Salad
Königsberger Klopse (German Meatballs and Gravy)
Contest-Winning Bavarian Meatball Hoagies
Oktoberfest Strudels
Lebkuchen
German Beer Cheese Spread
German Plum Tart
Pfeffernuesse Cookies
Slow-Cooked Reuben Brats
Pickled Beets
Potato Rolls
Apple Strudel
Pork Chops and Sauerkraut
Caraway Seed Rye Bread
Slow-Cooker Cheddar Bacon Beer Dip
Almond Spritz Cookies
Slow-Cooker Sauerbraten
Chocolate Lebkuchen
Apple-Roasted Pork with Cherry Balsamic Glaze
Sausage and Lentil Soup
Standing Rib Roast
Kuchen
German Recipe FAQ
What are the most popular authentic German dishes?
Some of the most popular authentic German dishes include German schnitzel and potatoes, soft pretzels, sauerkraut, bratwurst and potato dumplings. These staples achieve the right balance of the flavors and textures in German cuisine—golden-crisp crusts, smoky sausages and tangy fermented cabbage. In the fall, Oktoberfest recipes are quite popular.
What food is Germany known for?
People recognize Germany as having hearty comfort food, specifically sausage-based dishes and slow-cooked roasts. Meat, potatoes, cabbage and freshly baked breads form the foundation of many meals, especially in regions like Bavaria. German desserts, most notably baked goods like sweet and savory strudel recipes, are also well-known.
What easy traditional German recipes can I make at home?
Some easy German recipes include potato pancakes, Oktoberfest red cabbage and spaetzle. These recipes call for basic ingredients you likely have in the pantry that pack a lot of flavor. If you’re looking for easy weeknight dinners, try making a roast in the oven or creating a quick skillet meal with bratwurst and vegetables.