Go Back

Authentic German Maultaschen Meat Dumplings

Every German food lover will fall head over heels for these authentic Maultaschen dumplings. With a tender pasta exterior and a savory meat-spinach filling spiked with nutmeg, these dumplings are versatile enough to be served in broth, pan-fried with eggs, or topped with caramelized onions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: German
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 pound spinach fresh or frozen, blanched (if fresh) or thawed and squeezed to remove excess moisture
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil for sautéing
  • 1/2 medium onion minced
  • 1 cup ground beef or substitute with ground turkey/chicken if preferred
  • 3-4 slices good quality bread soaked in milk or water then squeezed and crumbled
  • Milk or water for soaking bread
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated if available
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3-4 eggs beaten, to mix into the filling
For the Dumplings
  • 12 ounce package wonton wrappers can substitute with pasta dough sheets
  • 1 egg beaten with water for sealing the dumplings

Equipment

  • Sauté pan
  • Large bowl
  • Colander
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Blanch the fresh spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes (or, if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture). Drain in a colander, squeeze out as much liquid as possible, and chop finely. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add 1 cup ground beef to the pan and sauté until just cooked through. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  4. Soak 3-4 slices of good quality bread in milk or water, then squeeze out the liquid and crumble the bread into small pieces.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cooled beef mixture, and crumbled bread. Season with 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix in 3-4 beaten eggs until well combined.
  6. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Brush the edges with the egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with a little water), fold to form half-moons or squares, and press firmly to seal.
  7. Simmer the dumplings in a pot of beef broth for about 5 minutes, until they float to the top.
  8. Serve the dumplings hot in broth or with your preferred side, such as German potato salad, sautéed cabbage, or a crisp green salad with tangy mustard vinaigrette.

Notes

This recipe for German Maultaschen offers a unique twist using wonton wrappers as a quick substitute for traditional pasta dough. The filling, featuring a combination of spinach, ground beef, and crumbled bread, creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors enhanced by a hint of nutmeg. You can easily adapt the recipe by substituting the meat with turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian mix. Serve the dumplings in a clear beef broth or with sides like German potato salad for a comforting meal that brings a touch of authentic German cuisine to your table.