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Leberkäse
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Authentic Leberkäse (Bavarian Meatloaf)

A classic Bavarian meatloaf with a smooth texture and rich flavor. Perfect hot or cold, in a sandwich or with traditional sides.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Chilling Time30 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Bavarian, German
Keyword: Bavarian Meatloaf, German Recipes, Leberkäse
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Loaf Pan (9x5-inch)
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

  • 1 lb pork shoulder cut into small cubes, chilled
  • 1 lb beef chuck cut into small cubes, chilled
  • 1/2 cup ice water keep very cold

Seasonings

  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp white pepper ground
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp marjoram dried
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg ground
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Chill the Ingredients: Place the pork, beef, food processor blade, and bowl in the freezer for 30 minutes to chill.
    1 lb pork shoulder, 1 lb beef chuck
  • Grind the Meat: Using the chilled food processor, grind the meat in batches until very fine. Transfer to a bowl set over ice to keep it cold.
  • Season the Meat: Add the salt, white pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, marjoram, and nutmeg to the ground meat. Mix thoroughly.
    2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp white pepper, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp marjoram, 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Create the Emulsion: With the processor running, slowly add the ice water to the meat mixture until it's smooth and paste-like.
    1/2 cup ice water
  • Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Fill the Loaf Pan: Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Spoon the meat mixture into the pan, pressing down to eliminate air pockets. Smooth the top and, if desired, make diagonal cuts for decoration.
  • Bake the Leberkäse: Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Optional Browning: For a crispy crust, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Rest and Slice: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carefully remove from the pan and slice as desired.
  • Serve: Enjoy hot with sweet mustard and a pretzel, or let it cool and serve cold in sandwiches.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze slices in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
  • Tip: Keeping everything cold is essential for the perfect texture. Don't skip chilling the meat and equipment.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 400mg | Vitamin A: 50IU | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 3mg