Hackbraten: Traditional German Meatloaf Recipe
Experience the hearty flavors of German cuisine with this delectable Hackbraten recipe, a classic meatloaf that’s as rich in tradition as it is in taste. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a cozy gathering, this German meatloaf combines a flavorful blend of ground meats and spices, enveloped in a buttery crust with savory onions and a touch of beef broth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this classic dish that will have your taste buds singing and your kitchen filled with delicious aromas. 🍽️
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onions
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cups ground beef
- 3/4 cup ground pork
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
-
Prepare the Skillet:
Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the finely chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. This step will build a foundation of flavor for your meatloaf. -
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the diced bread and chopped parsley into the skillet with the onions. Continue to sauté the mixture for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed bread and onion mixture with the ground beef and ground pork. Crack in the egg and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed. -
Shape and Prepare:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the top and sides of the loaf with bread crumbs, which will create a delightful crust as it bakes. -
Butter and Broth:
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a baking pan. Place the formed meatloaf into the pan. Pour the beef broth around the meatloaf and scatter the remaining chopped onions over the top of the loaf. The broth will keep the meatloaf moist and add extra flavor. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 1/4 hours, basting frequently with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s cooked through. -
Serve:
Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the loaf, making each slice more flavorful and juicy. Slice and serve the Hackbraten with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 671.5
- Fat: 44.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 19.5 grams
- Cholesterol: 221.4 mg
- Sodium: 1674.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 22.5 grams
- Fiber: 1.9 grams
- Sugar: 4.1 grams
- Protein: 43.1 grams
Serving Suggestion
Hackbraten pairs wonderfully with a side of buttery green beans or a fresh garden salad. For a truly authentic German meal, serve with a side of sauerkraut or buttery egg noodles. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with a glass of robust red wine or a cold, crisp beer.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste, and remember, this German meatloaf is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, Hackbraten is sure to become a family favorite. Bon appétit! 🍽️👨🍳
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, visit us at Love With Recipes.
