The moment I pulled this Classic German Hackbraten from the oven, the inviting aroma enveloped my kitchen, sparking memories of cozy family dinners. Imagine slicing into a golden-brown meatloaf only to reveal a heartwarming surprise: hard-boiled eggs nestled inside, perfectly cooked and oozing comfort. It was a delightful discovery I made while experimenting with traditional German recipes, marrying rich flavors with an element of surprise.
This hearty dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it brings people together, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering. With a blend of ground meat, fresh vegetables, and an array of potential variations, you can easily tailor it to your taste. Whether you’re a busy parent seeking a weeknight meal or a dedicated chef looking to impress your guests, this stuffed meatloaf with egg promises to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delectable!
Why Choose This Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg?
Heartwarming Comfort: This stuffed meatloaf with egg is reminiscent of family gatherings, filling your home with an inviting aroma that draws everyone to the table.
Surprising Filling: Each slice unveils perfectly cooked eggs, adding a delightful twist to the traditional meatloaf experience.
Customizable Creations: You can easily adapt this recipe to your personal taste by incorporating seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs, making it uniquely yours.
Time-Saving Meal: Prepare it ahead of time for a hassle-free weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, saving precious hours in the kitchen.
Appeals to Everyone: Perfect for picky eaters and gourmet chefs alike, this dish will impress all your dinner guests, proving that comfort food can also be a culinary adventure.
Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg Ingredients
Elevate your family dinners with this delightful stuffed meatloaf recipe!
For the Meatloaf
- Mixed Ground Meat (750g) – Core ingredient that gives your stuffed meatloaf with egg a mouthwatering flavor; consider a mix of beef and pork for richness.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning to elevate every bite; adjust quantities based on your personal preference.
- Onion – Adds aromatic depth; shallots can be substituted for a sweeter touch.
- Toast Bread – Acts as a binder to hold your meat mixture together; gluten-free bread is an excellent alternative.
- Butter (30g) – Adds richness to the meatloaf; margarine can be used for a lower-fat option.
- Parsley – Freshness and color for the meat mixture; basil or chives are great substitutes.
For the Filling
- Eggs – Provide protein and moisture, and create that delightful surprise in every slice; a plant-based egg substitute can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Carrots (250g) – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to use any root vegetable as a substitute if desired.
- Kohlrabi – Offers a lovely crunch; potatoes can be used if you prefer a softer texture.
- Frozen Peas (150g) – Adds a pop of color and sweetness; fresh peas can also be utilized for an even fresher taste.
- Champignons (100g) – Enhance the umami flavor of your meatloaf; button mushrooms work well as a substitute.
For the Sauce
- Dark Sauce Thickener (2-3 tbsp) – Used for thickening the sauce harmony; cornstarch slurry is a great gluten-free alternative.
For Garnishing
- Parsley for Garnishing – A sprinkle of freshness to top off your stuffed meatloaf and enhance its presentation.
How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg
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Boil the Eggs: Start by boiling your eggs for about 8 minutes. Once they’re done, cool them in an ice bath for easy peeling and set aside.
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Prepare the Veggies: Finely dice the onion and crumble the toast bread. This will ensure an even texture in your stuffed meatloaf with egg.
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Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, crumbled toast bread, remaining raw egg, diced onion, and chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors!
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Shape the Loaf: Mold the mixture into a loaf shape, making a small pocket in the center to place the boiled eggs. Gently cover the eggs with the meat mixture, ensuring they’re hidden away!
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Bake the Meatloaf: Place your meatloaf on a greased baking sheet and pop it in the oven at 200°C (Gas Mark 3) for about 50 minutes. You want it to be beautifully golden brown.
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Cook the Vegetables: While the meatloaf bakes, slice and boil your chosen vegetables. Add the peas just for the last 5 minutes to keep them vibrant and sweet.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a pan, melt butter and sauté the sliced champignons until tender. Add the meatloaf drippings with a little water, then thickening with your dark sauce binder for a rich sauce.
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Serve with Love: Serve your stuffed meatloaf with the sautéed vegetables on the side, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that finishing touch!
Optional: Pair with boiled potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg
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Perfect Egg Boiling: Ensure your eggs are boiled for exactly 8 minutes; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Cooling them in ice water helps with peeling.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to a dense stuffed meatloaf with egg. A light hand keeps it tender and juicy.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches at least 70°C for safe and proper cooking.
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Thawing Leftovers: If freezing leftover meatloaf, slice it beforehand for quicker thawing and reheating, ensuring you enjoy it again without hassle.
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Variations Welcome: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or different herbs to customize your stuffed meatloaf with egg to your taste.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious stuffed meatloaf with egg options are perfect for busy weeknights and make meal prep a breeze! You can prepare the meat mixture (without the eggs) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ground meat, crumbled bread, onion, and seasonings, then cover and refrigerate. Boil the eggs and keep them in their shells until you’re ready to bake; this helps prevent them from browning. When you’re ready to serve, form the meatloaf, incorporate the boiled eggs, and bake as instructed. You’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors with minimal effort, allowing for quality family time!
Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this stuffed meatloaf with egg your own!
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground meat with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. Ensure to blend with spices for flavor depth.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture to bring a fiery twist to your loveable comfort food.
- Italian Flair: Mix in Italian herbs like oregano or basil for a Mediterranean-style flavor; consider adding diced olives for a salty burst.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheese into the meat mixture for a gooey surprise, or place slices atop before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Sweet & Savory: Include diced apples or cranberries for a surprising touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in crushed walnuts or pecans to the meat mixture for a satisfying crunch that adds texture and depth.
- Zesty Citrus: Grate lemon or orange zest into your meat mixture for a bright and fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Herb Garden: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or tarragon in place of parsley for a unique aromatic twist that complements the meatloaf.
Embark on this culinary adventure and customize to delight your family’s palate!
What to Serve with Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg?
The perfect meal needs delightful companions that enhance its heartwarming flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture complements the savory meatloaf, soaking up the rich sauce for an unforgettable bite.
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Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds a crunchy contrast and fresh taste to the dish.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.
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Warm Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of fresh bread to mop up the delicious sauce – it’s comfort food at its finest!
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Savory Gravy: Drizzle homemade gravy over the meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor, making each forkful irresistibly moist and satisfying.
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Steamed Broccoli Florets: Bright green broccoli provides a tender, fresh crunch and vibrant color, while its subtle taste complements the robust meatloaf.
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Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy zest cuts through the richness of the meat, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens up the meal.
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Cold Beer or Wine: Pair with a chilled beer or a glass of red wine to add an extra touch of festivity to your dining experience.
Indulge in this comforting feast and watch memories unfold around the dinner table!
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep your stuffed meatloaf with egg fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, allowing storage for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy thawing.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 25-30 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a flavorful stuffed meatloaf with egg, I recommend using a combination of beef and pork. The beef adds richness, while the pork brings juiciness. However, if you prefer turkey or chicken, those work beautifully too.
How do I store leftovers properly?
After enjoying your delicious stuffed meatloaf with egg, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze stuffed meatloaf?
Yes, you can! To freeze your stuffed meatloaf with egg, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For quicker thawing, slice the meatloaf before freezing.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your stuffed meatloaf comes out dry, it’s often due to overcooking. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness can help; you want it to reach 70°C (160°F). If you’re looking to add moisture, serve it with a homemade gravy or sauce, which can help balance the texture!
Are there any allergy considerations?
Certainly! This stuffed meatloaf with egg can be tailored to accommodate allergies. For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free bread as a binder, and check labels on your other ingredients. For egg allergies, consider plant-based egg substitutes that can provide similar moisture and binding properties.
How do I know if my kohlrabi is ripe?
When selecting kohlrabi, look for firm bulbs without dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, and avoid ones that are too soft or have a lot of dark or shriveled areas.
Delicious Stuffed Meatloaf with Egg for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the eggs for about 8 minutes, then cool in an ice bath.
- Finely dice the onion and crumble the toast bread.
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, crumbled toast bread, remaining raw egg, diced onion, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and create a pocket for the boiled eggs.
- Place the meatloaf on a greased baking sheet and bake at 200°C for 50 minutes.
- While baking, slice and boil the chosen vegetables. Add peas last for freshness.
- Melt butter in a pan, sauté champignons, add drippings, and thicken with the dark sauce binder.
- Serve with sautéed vegetables, garnished with parsley.