Classic Bavarian Leberkäse Loaf

Classic Bavarian Leberkäse Loaf

Classic DishLeberkäse

Prep: 30 min • Cook: 70 min. A traditional, finely ground meatloaf baked to a golden-brown crust. Enjoy sliced thick and pan-fried, served with a sweet mustard and potato salad for an authentic Bavarian experience.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
1 hr 10 min
Total time
1 hr 40 min
Servings
8

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a loaf pan or a baking dish.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, finely chopped onion, beaten eggs, bread crumbs, dried marjoram, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
  3. 3Gradually add the cold water while mixing the ingredients thoroughly. The mixture should be sticky but firm.
  4. 4Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan or baking dish.

Baking

  1. 1Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the leberkäse is firm and has a golden-brown crust. An internal temperature of 70°C (160°F) should be reached.
  2. 2If the crust starts browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil.

Serving

  1. 1Let the leberkäse rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps it retain its shape.
  2. 2Slice the leberkäse into thick slices (about 1-1.5 cm or 0.5 inch).
  3. 3For best results, pan-fry the slices in a little butter or oil until golden brown and heated through.
  4. 4Serve hot, traditionally with sweet mustard and a side of potato salad or sauerkraut.

Nutrition Information

Calories
551 kcal
Protein
30 g
Fat
40 g
Carbs
16 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories551 kcal
Protein30 g
Fat40 g
Carbs16 g

Tips

  • Ensure all meat is cold when mixing for better texture. A food processor can help achieve a finer grind.
  • Resting the leberkäse after baking makes it easier to slice and improves its texture before pan-frying.
  • For an extra crispy crust, pan-fry the slices in a hot skillet with a bit of oil or butter until deeply golden.

By Chef Michael Ilin