Hungarian Meatloaf (Fasírt) – A Flavorful, Comforting Classic
This Hungarian-style meatloaf (fasírt) is packed with savory spices, tender ground meat, and a crispy golden crust. It’s a beloved comfort food in Hungary, often served with mashed potatoes, pickles, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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1 lb (450g) ground pork (or a mix of pork & beef)
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1 small onion, finely grated
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 egg
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½ cup breadcrumbs (or soaked stale bread)
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1 tsp sweet Hungarian paprika (essential!)
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½ tsp caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp oil (for frying)
For the Pan Gravy (Optional but Recommended):
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp flour
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½ cup beef or vegetable broth
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, caraway seeds, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Mix well (use hands for best texture) until fully combined.
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Let rest 10 minutes so flavors meld.
2. Shape & Fry
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Form the mixture into small oval patties (like thick burgers) or one large loaf.
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Fry the patties 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
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For a large loaf: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes instead.
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3. Make the Gravy (Optional)
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In the same skillet, melt butter, then whisk in flour to make a roux.
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Add broth, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring until thickened.
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Pour over meatloaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Classic Pairings:
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Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
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Hungarian cucumber salad (uborkasaláta)
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Pickled vegetables or sauerkraut
🍷 Drink Pairing: A glass of Hungarian red wine (Egri Bikavér) or a crisp lager.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Juicy & flavorful (thanks to paprika and caraway).
✅ Crispy outside, tender inside (pan-frying locks in moisture).
✅ Great leftover—tastes even better the next day!
Variations
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Spicy: Add a pinch of hot paprika or cayenne.
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Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken.
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German-Inspired: Skip the gravy and serve with mustard.
Craving more Hungarian food? Let me know if you’d like a goulash or chicken paprikash recipe next! 😊
