Danish Breaded Pork Patties (Karbonader)

Danish breaded pork patties (karbonader) are juicy pork patties with a buttery, crunchy crust. They’re easy to make and very versatile. This traditional Danish dish of breaded and pan-fried pork patties is a true comfort food.

Karbonader is a classic Danish dish of breaded and pan-fried pork patties. It’s also known as krebinetter. I did some research to see if I could find the difference between karbonader and krebinetter and it was hard to nail down a definitive difference. Some say the difference is just in the name and that it’s called one or the other depending on which part of Denmark you’re from.

There also seems to be regional differences in the way they’re prepared. In some versions you mix the breadcrumbs and egg in with the ground pork, others include an extra step of flouring the patties before dipping in the breadcrumbs. There are more similarities than differences and whichever way you make them they’ll taste delicious!

I changed up a few things from the traditional recipe. I added sautéed onions and garlic to add more depth of flavor, and I used panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs absorb less oil than regular breadcrumbs making a lighter, crunchier crust.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Ground pork: Can use other ground meat like turkey or beef or a plant-based meat
• Onion and garlic: Adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs: I used panko breadcrumbs because I find them to be light and crispy. You can use regular breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Egg: Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the patties.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
• Butter: I highly suggest using butter to cook the patties because it gives the breadcrumbs a rich buttery flavor. If you really don’t want to use butter oil will work, but it won’t taste as good!

How To Make Breaded Pork Patties (Karbonader)

• In a large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the onions and sauté until they’re soft and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat and let the onion and garlic mixture cool for a few minutes.
• Meanwhile, add the egg to a shallow bowl and beat the egg with a fork.
• Add the panko breadcrumbs to another shallow bowl.

• In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, onion, garlic, salt and pepper.
• Shape mixture into 4 round burger-like patties.

• Dip the patties into the egg, making sure to coat the entire patty.
• Then roll the patty in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat the entire patty. Don’t forget the sides!

• Melt the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil and butter in the skillet over medium heat.
• Add the patties to the pan and cook patties for about 6-8 minutes on each side until done or a meat thermometer reads 160°.
• Remove from the pan and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Wet your hands with a bit of water before making the patties. This stops the meat from sticking to your hands.
• Don’t use really high heat. If the pan is too hot the breadcrumbs will burn before the meat is cooked through.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties are cooked all the way through and safe to eat. The thermometer should read at least 160°.
• The crispy bits of breading left in the pan after the patties have finished cooking are delicious! Don’t throw them away!

What to Serve with Danish Breaded Pork Patties (Karbonader)

• Traditionally, stewed peas and carrots or boiled potatoes are served with karbonader.
• My apple jalapeño chutney is so delicious with these breaded pork patties!
• Of course they’re great with my pickled beets!
• Paired with my easy spiced cranberry sauce.
• Put them in a bun and eat them like a burger.
• Try them with my spiced baked apples with walnuts and cranberries for a wonder fall dish.
• Have my caramelized onions and horseradish mashed potatoes on the side!
• My farro salad with artichoke hearts and feta makes a wonderful accompaniment to this dish.

Variations

• Use other types of breading like gluten-free breadcrumbs, crackers, finely ground nuts, or crushed pork rinds.
• Add herbs and spices like ginger, chili peppers, or sage.
• Put a little cheese in the center of the patties.

How to Store Danish Breaded Pork Patties (Karbonader)

Karbonader will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in and air-tight container. You can also freeze them for about 3-6 months and reheat them in a 350° oven for 10-15 minute, or until warmed all the way through.