Hungarian Meatloaf – Hungarian Chef

Last Updated on July 16, 2023

Hungarian Meatloaf is a traditional dish that originated in Hungary. The flavorful dish is a great accompaniment to any meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be easily prepared in under an hour. 

So if you’re looking for an easy, delicious dish that your family and friends will love, then look no further than this classic Hungarian Meatloaf.

In this article, we will go over everything that you need to know to make the perfect Hungarian Meatloaf, from the ingredients list to tips and tricks. So let’s get started!

Hungarian Meatloaf

What is Hungarian Meatloaf?

Hungarian Meatloaf is a traditional dish that originated in Hungary. It is a flavorful combination of eggs, ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices. The mixture is formed into a loaf and then baked in the oven until it’s cooked through.

This hearty dish has been around for centuries and can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. It is a popular dish in many countries and can be adapted to different tastes and preferences.

What does it taste like?

Hungarian Meatloaf has a savory flavor with a slight hint of sweetness from the onions. The paprika powder adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the ground beef. 

The Vegeta seasoning gives a subtle umami flavor while the black pepper adds a nice kick of spice. The breadcrumbs and olive oil give the dish an added layer of texture and flavor.

You Might Also Like These Dinner Recipes!

How did I first get introduced to the Hungarian Meatloaf?

I first heard about Hungarian Meatloaf from my grandmother. She used to make it for special occasions and it was always a hit with the family. I remember how the aroma of the spices and beef filled up the house. 

So I decided to try and recreate the dish with my own twist. After a few attempts, I finally came up with the perfect recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.

How to make Hungarian Meatloaf?

Making Hungarian Meatloaf is a simple process that requires minimal effort. All you need is the ingredients & step-by-step instructions:

Ingredients

  • Eggs: This is the starting point of our Hungarian meatloaf. The eggs will act as a binding agent for all of the other ingredients in this dish.
  • Ground Beef: Choose a good quality ground beef, preferably lean or extra-lean for this recipe. This adds flavor and texture to the dish.
  • Red Onion: Adding onion is optional but it adds a great flavor to the dish.
  • Salt: Salt helps to bring out all of the flavors in this dish.
  • Bread or Buns: Adding bread or buns gives the meatloaf an added layer of texture and taste. I prefer to use Ciabatta rolls for this recipe.
  • Paprika Powder: Paprika powder gives the meatloaf a smoky flavor and adds a nice red color.
  • Vegeta Seasoning: The Vegeta seasoning is an all-purpose seasoning that adds great flavor to this dish. I prefer Chicken Flavor Bouillon for this recipe.
  • Black Pepper: Black pepper adds an interesting kick of flavor to the dish.
  • Olive Oil: Choose a good quality olive oil for this recipe, as it helps to bring out all of the flavors in the dish.
  • Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs helps to bind all of the ingredients together and adds a nice crunchy texture.
  • Garlic: Garlic adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Ground Nutmeg: This adds a unique flavor to the meatloaf that is both distinct and subtle.
  • Marjoram: Marjoram adds a fresh flavor to the dish.
Hungarian Meatloaf

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, ground beef, red onion, salt, bread or buns, paprika powder, Vegeta seasoning, black pepper and olive oil. Mix together until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3

Add the breadcrumbs to the mixture and mix until it is evenly distributed.

Step 4,

Mince the garlic and add it to the mixture. Then, add the nutmeg and marjoram and mix until everything is well-combined.

Step 5

Transfer the mixture to a 9″ x 13″ baking pan or dish. Place in preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Step 6

Once the Hungarian meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

– You can use beef broth instead of Vegeta seasoning for added flavor.

– Adding some fresh herbs to the mixture will add more flavor and aroma to the dish.

– If you want a firmer meatloaf, reduce baking time by 10 minutes.

– To make sure your Hungarian Meatloaf is cooked through, insert a thermometer into the center of the dish and make sure it reads at least 160°F (71°C).

Hungarian Meatloaf

Hungarian Meatloaf

Hungarian Meatloaf is a traditional dish that originated in Hungary. The flavorful dish is a great accompaniment to any meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be easily prepared in under an hour.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hungarian Cuisine
Keyword: Hungarian Meatloaf
Servings: 6
Calories: 315kcal
Author: Lori Walker, RD & Recipe Developer

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Large Baking Dish

Ingredients

  • 5 eggs 4 hard-boiled
  • 1 lb ground beef best choice
  • 1 small red onion
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 slice of white bread or buns ( I used 1 Ciabatta Roll)
  • 2 tbsp paprika powder
  • 1 tsp Vegeta Seasoning preferably Chicken Flavor Bouillon
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or any
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ⅔ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp marjoram

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, ground beef, red onion, salt, bread or buns, paprika powder, Vegeta seasoning, black pepper and olive oil. Mix together until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Add the breadcrumbs to the mixture and mix until it is evenly distributed.
  • Mince the garlic and add it to the mixture. Then, add the nutmeg and marjoram and mix until everything is well-combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to a 9" x 13" baking pan or dish. Place in preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
  • Once the Hungarian meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

– You can use beef broth instead of Vegeta seasoning for added flavor.
– Adding some fresh herbs to the mixture will add more flavor and aroma to the dish.
– If you want a firmer meatloaf, reduce baking time by 10 minutes.
– To make sure your Hungarian Meatloaf is cooked through, insert a thermometer into the center of the dish and make sure it reads at least 160°F (71°C).
 

Nutrition

Calories: 315kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Nutrition Information

  • Total Fat- 9g,
  • Cholesterol- 115mg,
  • Sodium- 302mg,
  • Carbohydrates- 11g,
  • Protein- 18g.

What to serve with Hungarian Meatloaf?

Hungarian Meatloaf is a hearty dish that pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

-Vegetable or potato salad

-Roasted vegetables

-Mashed potatoes

-Couscous or quinoa

-Steamed green beans or broccoli

-Rice or pasta

-Garlic bread or toast.

How to store leftover Hungarian Meatloaf?

Once cooked, Hungarian Meatloaf can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to three months. 

If freezing, make sure to wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can pregnant women eat this?

Pregnant women can safely eat Hungarian Meatloaf as long as the dish is cooked through and all ingredients are fresh. Pregnant women should also avoid eating any leftovers that may not have been stored correctly or may be past their expiration date. 

Additionally, pregnant women should follow food safety guidelines and wash their hands before and after preparing the dish.

FAQs 

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can use turkey instead of beef for this recipe. Turkey is a leaner alternative to beef and has a more delicate flavor. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey may need less time in the oven. 

Keep an eye on it while baking and remove it from the oven when it’s cooked through.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs for this recipe. However, if you want a richer flavor and texture, we recommend making your own breadcrumbs. 

To do this, simply toast some stale bread in the oven until it is golden brown and then grind it into crumbs.

Can I make Hungarian Meatloaf without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the eggs in this recipe. However, the meatloaf may not hold together as well without them, so be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. 
Additionally, if omitting eggs, you may need to add additional breadcrumbs or another binding agent such as flaxseed. ​​​​​​​

Wrapping Up

Hungarian Meatloaf is a classic dish that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The savory combination of ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices makes this dish an instant winner. 

So if you’re looking for an easy, delicious meal that your family and friends will love, then give this, recipe a try.

Thank you for reading! We hope you enjoyed this guide to making Hungarian Meatloaf.

Bon appétit!

Sharing is Caring!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

Author Profile
 | Website

Lori Walker is a passionate dietitian and food lover. She offers simple and nutritious recipes that don't take long to cook. In addition to sharing delicious dishes, she also shares useful advice on saving time and money in the kitchen. She believes that with a bit of creativity, anyone can make healthy meals that won't break the bank. Read more

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating