Name: Traditional German Meatloaf (Hackbraten)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tbsp mustard; 1 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Why You’ll Love Traditional German Meatloaf (Hackbraten) Recipe

This German meatloaf is juicy, well seasoned, and straightforward to prepare. The combination of beef and pork creates a rich flavor, while soaked bread and onions keep the texture tender. It is a reliable comfort food that works just as well for a cozy weeknight meal as it does for a relaxed weekend gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 lb (450g) ground pork
1 onion, diced and caramelized
2 slices stale bread, soaked in milk
2 eggs
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a skillet, sauté the diced onion in a little oil until soft and golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Soak the bread slices in milk, then gently squeeze out the excess liquid.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, caramelized onions, soaked bread, garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: about 20 minutes
Cook time: about 60 to 70 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes

Variations

Add grated carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra moisture and a subtle sweetness.

Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a more aromatic flavor.

Replace the bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or gluten-free bread soaked in milk to make the recipe gluten-free.

For a smoky flavor, add a small amount of barbecue sauce to the glaze mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

What is Hackbraten?

Hackbraten is the German version of meatloaf, traditionally made with ground meat, soaked bread, onions, and simple seasonings.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or gluten-free bread soaked in milk.

What meats work best for Hackbraten?

A mix of ground beef and pork is traditional, but you can also use all beef, all pork, or even ground turkey.

Is soaking the bread necessary?

Soaking the bread helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender, but breadcrumbs can be used if needed.

Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?

Yes, finely grated carrots, zucchini, or chopped herbs blend in well and add moisture.

What are good side dishes for Hackbraten?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, spaetzle, braised cabbage, or a simple green salad.

How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Can I add boiled eggs inside the meatloaf?

Yes, hard-boiled eggs can be placed in the center of the loaf before baking for a traditional variation.

What sauces go well with German meatloaf?

Mushroom gravy or a creamy pan sauce pairs very well with Hackbraten.

Can I prepare Hackbraten ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the meatloaf up to one day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

Conclusion

Traditional German Hackbraten is a satisfying and comforting dish with timeless appeal. Its juicy texture, balanced seasoning, and simple preparation make it a dependable recipe for any home cook. Served with classic sides, this meatloaf brings authentic German comfort food straight to your table.