German Meatloaf Recipe – German Special
German Meatloaf, or Hackbraten, is a beloved dish that combines ground beef and pork with a medley of seasonings, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf. Traditionally, it’s baked with hard-boiled eggs nestled inside, earning it the nickname Falscher Hase (False Hare). This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and special occasions, offering a taste of authentic German comfort food.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time1 hr 20 min
- Perform Time10 min
- Total Time1 hr 50 min
German Meatloaf Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef
- 1 lb (500g) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried marjoram (optional)
- ½ cup milk
- 3 hard-boiled eggs (optional, for stuffing)
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for brushing)
Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram, and milk until well combined.
Shape the Meatloaf:
Place half of the mixture in the baking dish, form a log, and place the hard-boiled eggs in the center (if using). Cover with the remaining meat mixture and shape into a loaf.
Bake:
Brush with butter or oil and bake for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve:
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, gravy, or vegetables.
Recipe Notes:
Meat Blend: For optimal flavor and texture, use a combination of ground beef and pork.
Breadcrumbs: Soak breadcrumbs in milk to keep the meatloaf moist.
Seasonings: Adjust mustard, paprika, and marjoram to suit your taste preferences.
Eggs: Incorporating hard-boiled eggs adds a traditional touch and visual appeal.
Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
