Trying to recreate the buzz of Oktoberfest at home comes with one universal truth: you need the right food. With 29 hearty German classics to choose from, it’s easy to build a menu that brings everyone together for good company and genuine comfort. These plates do more than just fill you up, as they invite you to linger and enjoy the stories that flow so easily with a stein in hand.

Three grilled sausages served on a bed of sauerkraut and diced potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley on a white plate. — Oma’s Knackwurst & Sauerkraut Skillet. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Sheet Pan Bratwurst & Potatoes

A sheet pan filled with cooked sausages, sliced potatoes, carrots, red and green bell peppers, and red onions. — Sheet Pan Bratwurst & Potatoes. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

With a single tray, Sheet Pan Bratwurst & Potatoes brings together juicy sausages and tender potatoes in a way that highlights German flavors. This dish offers an easy solution for groups who appreciate robust flavor without fussing over several pots and pans. Aromatic spices and caramelized vegetables unite for a meal that’s perfect for sharing around the table. Cleanup is simple, making it a go-to choice when comfort and ease are both on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Bratwurst & Potatoes

Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup

A bowl of Cabbage and Bean Soup with visible chunks of vegetables and beans, garnished with sprigs of rosemary. A spoon and striped napkin are beside the bowl. — Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pots filled with Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup simmer until cabbage softens and beans become silky, making each bite full of warmth. This soup’s appeal lies in a blend of staple ingredients coming together for depths of flavor, all while being resourceful and wholesome. Every spoonful shows how simple produce and pantry items can create comfort. Meals are grounding when classics like this have a place at your table.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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German Meat Patties (Frikadellen)

Four German meat patties are served on a bed of sauerkraut, garnished with parsley, on a rectangular white plate with a floral napkin in the background. — German Meat Patties (Frikadellen). Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Home cooks looking for timeless recipes turn to German Meat Patties (Frikadellen), which combine seasoned ground meats with a subtle mix of herbs and bread crumbs. Their crispy exterior and tender interior showcase how basic ingredients can be transformed. These patties are often served with mustard and hearty sides, honoring family traditions with each batch. Convenience and flavor find common ground, making them an enduring favorite.
Get the Recipe: German Meat Patties (Frikadellen)

Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

A bowl of soup with sliced sausage, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream, with a spoon resting in the bowl. — Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Recipes such as Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa are revered for combining tangy cabbage with tasty sausage in a transforming broth. Traditional flavors blend to celebrate German kitchens, with each ingredient contributing to a memorable soup. It’s filling, balanced, and does not require elaborate preparation. Large batches can be made, allowing families to gather and share stories over their bowls.
Get the Recipe: Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

German Kohlrabi

Adding a gentle crunch and subtle sweetness, German Kohlrabi finds its role in the lineup of fulfilling sides. Cooks often prepare it by slicing and cooking with simple seasonings to let its natural qualities shine. This vegetable offers an approachable way to incorporate more greens at mealtime. When served with rich meats, it lightens the plate and offers refreshment between heavier bites.
Get the Recipe: German Kohlrabi

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table. — Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Those seeking comfort find it in Roast Pork with Apples, where delicious meat and sweet apples create a pairing rooted in tradition. The gentle sweetness of apples complements rich pork, with both flavors marrying in the oven. Home kitchens fill with a blend of aromas as this centerpiece cooks, building anticipation for dinner. Slices can be served with pan drippings to make the experience even more fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Sauerkraut Balls

A close-up shot of hands pulling apart a crispy, golden-brown, cheese-filled snack with a gooey, melted cheese center against a textured white background. — Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bursting with personality, Sauerkraut Balls combine tangy cabbage and tasty meats in a crisp coating that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. These snacks can be made ahead and fried until golden, becoming a favorite bite for gatherings. With a balance of crunch and tang, they add variety to any platter. Served with dipping sauce, they echo classic German traditions in a playful format.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Balls

Homestyle Hamburger Stew

Warmth fills the kitchen as Homestyle Hamburger Stew simmers, bringing together ground beef and chunky vegetables for a timeless meal. Simple steps result in a hearty, filling stew that’s perfect for both hurried evenings and relaxed weekends. The recipe is straightforward, relying on accessible ingredients to create a well-rounded dinner. Dishes like this honor the German-inspired theme with home-cooked familiarity and nutrient-rich balance.
Get the Recipe: Homestyle Hamburger Stew

Dutch Apple Pie Squares

Families gather eagerly around trays of Dutch Apple Pie Squares, known for layers of spiced apples over a buttery base. These squares are easy to portion and make a practical answer for serving groups. Cinnamon, sugar, and fresh apples fill each slice with a gentle sweetness that is hard to resist. Their familiar taste brings guests together as everyone reaches for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Pie Squares

Cabbage Roll Casserole

Home cooks seeking comfort dishes turn to Cabbage Roll Casserole, where classic flavors are layered for easy preparation. Tender cabbage, seasoned meats, and grain come together without the need to roll individual parcels. Each forkful combines the tastes associated with traditional rolls, but with less work involved. Nourishing and filling, this casserole fits naturally into any meal plan inspired by German heritage.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Casserole

Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes

A close-up of German chocolate cupcakes topped with coconut-pecan frosting and a swirl of chocolate icing. — Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Baking fans appreciate Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes for pairing rich chocolate with a creamy coconut-pecan topping. These cupcakes convert a classic cake into portable portions ideal for sharing with friends or family. Moist crumb and balances of sweetness make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With their grab-and-go ease, dessert becomes accessible and fun without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth. — Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Whether as a side or main, Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon mixes robust bacon with tangy cabbage for a flavor combination that’s both bold and approachable. Vinegar and sugar create a balance, making this dish stand out at gatherings. Its vibrant color adds interest to the table while the flavor brings tradition and comfort. Pairing well with sausages or roasts, it rounds out German-inspired meal themes beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Dutch Apple Danishes

Baking sessions are brightened by Dutch Apple Danishes, which tuck cinnamon-spiced apples into soft pastry for a morning or midday treat. These danishes are easy to serve, making them great for casual breakfasts or celebratory brunches. Golden dough and fruit filling combine for a familiar, homey taste. They fit neatly into spreads where simplicity and comfort are the goal.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

A bowl of borscht with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill on top, served on a brown plate with a spoon on a marble surface. — Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup). Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Simmering pots of Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup) show how beets, vegetables, and gentle spices come together for a dish full of color and heartiness. This soup often includes a touch of tang from vinegar or lemon, enhancing the earthiness of the beets. Simple garnishes like sour cream or fresh herbs make a finishing touch. Bowls stay warm and inviting, drawing everyone back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

Apple Fritter Bread

Slices of Apple Fritter Bread offer a blend of juicy apples and sweet glaze for a quick breakfast or fulfilling snack. This recipe brings the charm of a bakery into home kitchens and cuts easily for sharing. Familiar flavors make it universally appealing across all ages. Versatile enough for quick breakfasts or dessert, it’s both convenient and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls. — Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those seeking generous portions and depth of spice, Authentic Hungarian Goulash delivers with chunks of tender beef and a paprika-rich broth that clings to every bite. Carrots and potatoes join in, absorbing the robust sauce while adding texture. Bread on the side makes it easy to enjoy each spoonful fully. Traditions anchor each bowl, making this stew a pillar of comfort food menus.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon. — Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dishes such as Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon tell a story of sweet, flavorful, and tangy notes mingling in harmony. Apple pieces brighten tangy sauerkraut, while bacon gives depth that lingers with each taste. This quick side can round out hearty mains or act as a topping for sausages. Its layers of flavor offer a welcome surprise when served at group meals.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Classic German Beer Braised Brats

Three Beer Braised Brats in toasted buns topped with sautéed onions, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of yellow sauce, served on a white plate. — Classic German Beer Braised Brats. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Kitchens come alive when preparing Classic German Beer Braised Brats, where sausage links simmer gently to achieve perfect juiciness. Beer bath and onions infuse each bratwurst with traditional flair, making ordinary meals more festive. The recipe needs little attention once it starts, allowing time for other dishes or conversation. Served alongside mustard and rolls, it’s a classic that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Classic German Beer Braised Brats

Kale Salad with Lemon

Anyone seeking brightness on their plate will enjoy Kale Salad with Lemon, where greens get tossed with a simple citrus dressing. Chopped vegetables, seeds, or nuts can be added for extra crunch or nourishment. This salad brings freshness that cuts through richer foods, creating balance. It stands as a thoughtful side that supports the broader German-inspired eating experience.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad with Lemon

Oven Baked Ribs

Families looking for hearty fare often prepare Oven Baked Ribs, where seasoned pork cooks low and slow until it becomes tender and easy to pull apart. Every rib offers deep flavor, enhanced by a sticky glaze or dry seasoning that caramelizes in the oven. Cooking this dish at home gives control over both texture and spice. Platters piled high with ribs magnify the comfort at any mealtime gathering.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Oma’s German Potato Salad

A spoonful of German potato salad topped with bacon, red onion, and chopped parsley held over a bowl of the same salad. — Oma’s German Potato Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Time-honored favorites such as Oma’s German Potato Salad deliver a blend of boiled potatoes, crisp bacon, and a tangy vinegar-based dressing. Served warm or cold, this salad adapts to many occasions and matches well with sausages or roasts. Onions and fresh herbs add extra texture and lift the flavors. Gatherings feel more connected when this classic graces the spread.
Get the Recipe: Oma’s German Potato Salad

Cabbage Roll Soup

Potfuls of Cabbage Roll Soup combine elements from original cabbage rolls but offer them in easy spoonfuls. Ground meats, grains, and tomato broth fill every ladle, providing flavors that are both familiar and convenient. Because there’s no rolling involved, this soup can be made quickly for any group. Comfort is easy to serve, and everyone can return for seconds without waiting.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Soup

Homemade Soft Pretzels

A hand uses a red silicone brush to apply butter or glaze to a baked soft pretzel on a baking sheet. — Homemade Soft Pretzels. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Baking days become fun with Homemade Soft Pretzels, shaped by hand and springy with every bite. Sprinkle with salt and serve fresh for maximum enjoyment, possibly paired with various mustards or cheese dips. Kneading and twisting dough offer creative activities for all ages. The result is a snack that fits seamlessly into German-themed festivities and everyday life.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Soft Pretzels

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Plates become brighter with Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill, where florets are tender with a burst of freshness from citrus and herbs. This side dish pairs comfortably with heavier meats or can star at lighter meals. Quick to prepare and appealing to many, it adds variety to any table. Gentle seasoning ensures that both children and adults find something to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

German Pork Loin

Cooking for family or friends is upgraded by German Pork Loin, where spice-rubbed pork roasts to juicy perfection. Pan juices may be reduced into a simple sauce, infusing practicality into traditional preparation. Slices are easily portioned, rewarding everyone with tender and deeply flavored meat. This dish sits confidently at the heart of any meal, earning its place in comfort food assemblies.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it. — Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Every serving of Slow Cooker German Pot Roast showcases a blend of beef, root vegetables, and spices that become fork-tender with hours of gentle heat. Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen without much hands-on effort. This approach works well for busy days when home-cooked meals are still prioritized. Hearty and reliable, pot roast brings everyone to the table willingly.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Bacon Fried Corn

Bringing together sweet kernels and tangy notes, Bacon Fried Corn uses a skillet to create a quick and flavorful side dish. The combination of bacon fat and corn caramelization heightens the experience, making it more than the sum of its parts. This recipe complements protein mains or can stand on its own when time is short. Its approachable method and accessible ingredients guarantee frequent requests.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Square pieces of Yellow Plum Crumble Bars are filled with a gentle tartness layered between rich crust and crumb topping. Plums bring a distinct pop of flavor that is mellowed by the sweetness of the bar itself. Perfect for any gathering, these bars travel well and keep their appeal throughout the day. Sharing is simple, and the recipe invites creativity from those who bake it.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan

Featuring tender vegetables and a cheesy finish, Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan offers a break from standard sides. Baked with minimal seasoning, kohlrabi shows its best attributes topped by melted cheese. The preparation is straightforward and comes together with little planning required. It’s a subtle update to German-inspired meals that earns positive attention from new and returning guests alike.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan