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Authentic Leberkäse Recipe, Bavarian meatloaf served with traditional sides.

Authentic Leberkäs

A hearty and sliceable Bavarian-style meatloaf that's rich, satisfying, and perfect for sandwiches or as a main meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Bavarian, German
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat Mixture
  • 1.5 pounds Ground pork This brings richness and traditional flavor.
  • 1 pound Ground beef Adds deeper meat flavor and structure.
  • 1 cup Crushed ice or ice cold water Helps achieve a smooth texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Salt Adjust carefully to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon White pepper Classic seasoning for this dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Essential for the authentic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Marjoram Adds Bavarian comfort to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder Helps lighten the texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a cold bowl, combine ground pork and ground beef with salt, white pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, marjoram, nutmeg, and baking powder.
  3. Mix until the mixture starts to look sticky and smooth, which should take a few minutes.
  4. Add crushed ice little by little while mixing until the mixture looks like a thick, smooth paste and holds together well.
  5. Pack the mixture tightly into the loaf pan, smoothing the top with wet hands and scoring a shallow X.
Baking
  1. Bake until the center reaches 160°F (71°C), usually 55 to 70 minutes depending on your oven.
  2. For a deeper crust, raise the heat to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 to 15 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  3. Rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to help the juices settle.

Notes

Leberkäs is best enjoyed in a sandwich with mustard and pickles, or served with potato salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat well.