Oktoberfest Party Food: Tips for Planning the Perfect Menu

There’s nothing quite like gathering family and friends for a traditional German feast! From sizzling sausages to mouth-watering soft pretzels, Oktoberfest party food is tasty and fun.

The good news is, throwing an Oktoberfest dinner party is easier than you might think. Choose a few items from each of the categories below, and you’ll have your party menu ready in no time.

Traditional German entrees

If you’re planning a sit-down meal, you’ll want to add at least one of these entrees to your Oktoberfest party menu. They’re simple to make and are sure to impress your guests.

1. Schweinebraten (roast pork)

This classic Bavarian dish is typically made with pork shoulder or pork loin roasted in dark beer and onions. It’s often served with a gravy-like sauce, red cabbage, and potato dumplings.

2. Schweinshaxe (roasted ham hock)

A decadent meal that’s a favorite in German beer halls, Schweinshaxe is made from pork hock and cooked, so it’s crispy on the outside and tender and juicy inside. While it’s not difficult to make, you can expect this meal to take about four hours to prepare. If you’re going to add it to your Oktoberfest party menu, you’ll need to plan.

3. Steckerfisch (grilled fish on a stick)

Fish that are marinated, skewered, and grilled is another simple traditional German food. In the U.S., most people make steckerfisch using trout or mackerel.

4. Wiesen Hendel (Oktoberfest roast chicken)

You can’t go to Oktoberfest without enjoying at least one roasted chicken. At the festival, whole chickens are spit-roasted until the skin becomes crispy and brown. If your grill has a rotisserie, you’re in luck! Otherwise, you can make a similar version in the oven.

5. Jagerschnitzel

While it may sound exotic, schnitzel is essentially just thin pork cutlets that are breaded and fried. Take your Oktoberfest party menu up a notch by serving Jagerschnitzel – a schnitzel dish that’s served with rich, decadent mushroom gravy.

German sausage feast

Want to host a more laid-back Oktoberfest dinner party? Skip the sit-down entrees and have a German sausage feast instead. You can toss some sausages on the grill, put out some buns and condiments, and enjoy spending time with your guests.

1. Bratwurst

There are many different types of German sausages to choose from, but Bratwurst is one of the most popular. This fresh sausage is typically made with veal and pork and seasoned with coriander, nutmeg, and ginger spices.

2. Sauerkraut

You can’t serve bratwurst at an Oktoberfest dinner party without also offering sauerkraut! This fermented food made of cabbage is a German staple and is both delicious and good for you.

3. Kielbasa

While kielbasa is technically a Polish sausage, it’s also commonly served in Germany. This makes it a perfect addition to your Oktoberfest party menu.

4. Pretzel sausage rolls

Skip the regular hot dog buns and serve your sausages on pretzel rolls instead. This will give you a more authentic experience, and once you taste the difference, you may never go back!

5. German condiments

Keep the theme going by putting out some popular German condiments for your guests to enjoy. Spicy mustard goes excellent with bratwurst, and curry ketchup is a traditional favorite in Germany.

Sides and snacks

No matter what you choose to serve as the main course for your Oktoberfest dinner party, you’ll want to offer your guests a few classic sides. They’re easy to make and will give your party a much more authentic feel.

1. Brezen (pretzels)

If you only choose one Oktoberfest party food, it should be soft and delicious pretzels. While you could make your own from scratch, frozen soft pretzels are just as good and so much easier.

2. Kasespatzle (cheese noodles)

Cheese spätzle is an easy side to make and is a great addition to your Oktoberfest party menu. This traditional dish is made with egg noodles and cheese, giving it a chewy, dumpling-like texture.

3. Sliced potatoes

German dishes are often served with a side of thin-sliced potatoes, along with applesauce or sour cream. Spray your potatoes with butter or oil for a perfectly fried complement to your German meal.

Traditional desserts

If your dinner guests have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to leave them feeling disappointed. So add one (or both!) of these delicious German desserts to your Oktoberfest party menu.

1. Strudel

Strudel is a thin pastry that’s rolled around a fruit filling and baked. While apple strudel is the most traditional option, you can also choose other tasty alternatives, like raspberry strudel bites.

2. Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies)

Lebkuchen is a type of soft gingerbread cookie that originated in Germany. It features classic spices, including cloves, cinnamon, and ginger, as well as an egg wash that gives it a glossy coating.

German beer

Some might argue that you can’t really celebrate Oktoberfest without some traditional beer. The good news is, there are many different varieties of German beers. So choose a couple of other options so your guests can enjoy the type they find most appealing.

1. Radler

One of the lightest options, a traditional German Radler, is a mix of a hoppy beer (like a pilsner) and a citrus soda. It’s crisp, sweet, and tart with just a bit of bitterness to give it balance.

2. Kolsch

Another light beer, Kolsh, has a slightly dry, crisp finish with just a touch of fruitiness. It’s a very “drinkable” beer that will appeal to a wide range of guests.

3. German pilsner

The light-bodied German pilsner (called “pils” in Germany) has a floral hop aroma. It’s pale in color and has a malty sweetness. This is a great option for those who enjoy a pale lager.

4. Dunkel

The word “Dunkel” is German for “dark.” Dunkel beer is either an amber color or dark brown. It has a smooth, malty flavor that often has a trace of chocolate or caramel flavor.

5. Doppelbock

Those who prefer a strong, dark beer will likely enjoy a doppelbock. This rich, dark-colored beer is the perfect companion to any German meal.

Let us shop for your Oktoberfest party food

Once you’ve planned your Oktoberfest party menu, the hard work is done. Now, you can head over to Instacart, place your order, and let our shoppers take care of everything for you. Sign up or log in to get started!

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