If you’re in the mood for comforting, home-style food that’s filling and full of flavor, German Meatloaf is a perfect choice. Loved for its juicy texture, well-balanced flavor, and readily available ingredients, this traditional dish has been a family favorite in Germany for generations. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight meals, relaxed Sunday lunches, or preparing ahead for the week.

Today, I’m excited to show you how to make a classic German Meatloaf. It’s quick, simple, and packed with amazing flavor that everyone will love. We’ll walk through this recipe together, step by step, keeping things easy so your German Meatloaf turns out juicy and delicious every single time.

What Is German Meatloaf

This German-style meatloaf is inspired by Frikadellen, featuring ground meat, soaked bread, onions, and warm spices. It’s not sugary or drenched in sauce, but all about deep savory flavor and a soft, juicy bite.

It’s usually served with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or a fresh salad—simple and comforting.

How To Make A German Meatloaf So Tasty And Delicious

If you’re craving comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, German meatloaf is the answer. Known for its rich seasoning, juicy texture, and simple ingredients, this dish is a classic family favorite across Germany

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine German

Servings 8

Equipment

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 nonstick loaf pan

Ingredients

  

• 500 g 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 slices of bread or breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika sweet or smoked
• ½ tsp mustard optional but recommended
• 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
• 2 tbsp oil or butter

Instructions

 

• Place the meat into a large mixing bowl
• Measure the spices and put them onto the meat
• Now start mixing the ingredients together with your hands or a mixer with dough hooks; add the food color if you want but it is optional
• Gradually add the water and mix well, you are basically kneading the meat mixture
• It will take around 10 minutes of kneading to achieve the right consistency; the meat mixture should look kind of smooth
• Now preheat the oven to 180 Degrees Celcius/350F
• Grease the loaf pan with oil and fill in the meat mixture 1 tsp oil to grease the loaf pan
• Make sure to pack the meat dough as tightly to prevent any air holes Smooth the surface with a little bit of water
• Bake for one hour in the preheated oven
• To achieve a nice crust I like to put the top grill on for around 5 to 10 minutes
• Enjoy hot or cold with fried potatoes, German potato salad, or cold on a slice of bread

Video

Notes

You can slice it as thick or thin as you like. It really comes down to personal preference, but for a main dish, I usually go for thicker slices.

Keyword Authentic German Dish,German Meat Loaf,German Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 slices of bread or breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
• ½ tsp mustard (optional but recommended)
• 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
• 2 tbsp oil or butter

Optional Topping

• 2–3 tbsp ketchup or mustard for brushing

Step-by-Step Instructions

The great thing is that no special tools are required. Mixing the meat by hand works perfectly, though a stand mixer can also be used if you prefer.

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Tear the bread into small pieces and soak it in the milk for a few minutes. Once soft, gently squeeze out excess milk. This step keeps the meatloaf tender and moist.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat the oil or butter in a pan and gently sauté the chopped onion until it is soft and translucent. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the meat mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine:

Ground meat, Soaked bread, Cooked onions, Egg, Garlic, Salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, and parsley
Mix gently using your hands or a spoon. Don’t overmix—this keeps the meatloaf soft, not dense.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or lined tray. Shape it into a loaf. If you prefer, you can lightly brush the top with ketchup or mustard for an extra flavor boost.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake the meatloaf for 45–55 minutes, or until cooked through and nicely browned on top. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

German meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes Authentic Recipe For German Potato Salad
• Boiled or roasted potatoes
• Sauerkraut or red cabbage
• Fresh cucumber or green salad

Serve with a little gravy or mustard on the side for a traditional touch.

Tips for the Best German Meatloaf

• Don’t skip the soaked bread—it’s the secret to juicy meatloaf.
• A mix of beef and pork adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps it retain its shape.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven or pan to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

This German meatloaf recipe is simple, comforting, and full of flavor—just the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re new to German cooking or just want a reliable meatloaf recipe, this one is sure to become a favorite.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite.