Goetta Recipe (Cincinnati Breakfast Classic)

This Cincinnati breakfast staple is basically the ultimate comfort food disguised as a morning meal – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with enough savory flavor to make you forget about boring old pancakes forever.

Picture this: steel-cut oats slowly simmered with perfectly seasoned ground pork and beef until they transform into something that’s part sausage, part porridge, and completely addictive.

The magic happens during that long, slow cook where everything melds together into a thick, almost pudding-like mixture that’s rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying in a way that only true comfort food can be.

Once it’s set overnight and sliced thick, you’ll pan-fry those golden slices until they develop the most incredible crispy crust that gives way to that tender, flavorful center.

This isn’t just breakfast – it’s a full-blown experience that’ll have your kitchen smelling like a cozy German deli and your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Fair warning: once you master this recipe, you’ll become the person everyone calls when they want “that amazing breakfast thing” you made that one time.

Ingredients

For the oat base

• 4 cups water
• 2½ cups pinhead or steel-cut oats (Dorsel’s brand preferred, or substitute steel-cut oats)
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided

For the meat mixture

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (or ½ teaspoon each: dried rosemary, marjoram, thyme, and sage)
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper (or 50/50 blend white and black pepper)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For cooking and assembly

• 4 cups low-sodium beef stock
• 2 bay leaves
• Parchment paper for lining
• Cooking spray for greasing
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or bacon fat (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the oat foundation

1. 1 In a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, bring 4 cups water, 2½ cups steel-cut oats, and 1 teaspoon salt to a rolling boil over high heat. The mixture will foam up initially, so use a pot with plenty of room.
2. 2 Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. The oats should become very thick and creamy, similar to a dense porridge consistency.

Mix the seasoned meat

1. 3 While oats cook, combine 1 pound ground pork, 1 pound ground beef, 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon white pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment.
2. 4 Mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat. With mixer running on low, slowly pour in 2 cups beef stock and continue mixing for 2 minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together well. This protein binding step is crucial for preventing crumbly goetta.

Combine and slow-cook the mixture

1. 5 Transfer the seasoned meat mixture to the pot with the cooked oats. Add remaining 2 cups beef stock and 2 bay leaves, stirring well to create a light pink, porridge-like mixture.
2. 6 Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent scorching. Once simmering, reduce heat to the lowest possible setting.
3. 7 Cook uncovered for 1-2 hours, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and burning. The mixture will gradually transform from loose and oatmeal-like to thick and chunky, resembling brownish-gray peanut butter. You’ll know it’s ready when dragging your spoon through the mixture clearly shows the bottom of the pot, and stirring requires significant effort.

Set and store the goetta

1. 8 Remove bay leaves and taste for seasoning – it should be as salty as breakfast sausage. Line two 8½×4½-inch loaf pans with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
2. 9 Divide the hot mixture evenly between prepared pans, smoothing tops with a spatula. Cool on counter for 1 hour, then refrigerate uncovered for 12 hours minimum to set completely. The uncovered chilling creates a skin that helps maintain shape when slicing.
3. 10 Once set, run a thin metal spatula around edges to loosen, then unmold and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 1 year.

Fry to serve

1. 11 Slice goetta into ½-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife. Heat 1 tablespoon oil or bacon fat in a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. 12 Add goetta slices without crowding and cook 5-10 minutes per side, resisting the urge to move them until a golden crust forms. Lower heat gradually if browning too quickly to prevent scorching while ensuring the interior heats through completely.

Recommended Equipment and Kitchen Tools

Essential Tools (for best results)

• Heavy-bottomed Dutch oven – The thick base prevents hot spots and scorching during the long cooking process, while the wide surface allows for better evaporation and stirring access
• Stand mixer with paddle attachment – Creates the perfect protein binding in the meat mixture that prevents crumbly texture, though you can knead by hand if needed
• Wooden spoon – Won’t scratch your pot and provides the leverage needed for stirring the increasingly thick mixture as it cooks
• Digital kitchen scale – Ensures accurate measurements for the 2½ cups oats and proper meat ratios for consistent results every time

Helpful Upgrades

• Cast iron skillet – Provides superior heat retention and creates the most evenly crispy crust when frying the finished goetta slices
• Instant-read thermometer – Helps monitor the mixture temperature during the long cooking process to maintain the gentle simmer
• Bench scraper – Makes transferring the thick mixture from pot to loaf pans much easier and cleaner
• Parchment paper – Essential for easy removal from loaf pans without breaking the delicate texture

Nice-to-Have Options

• Mandoline slicer – Creates perfectly uniform ½-inch slices for even cooking and professional presentation
• Storage containers – Airtight containers keep pre-sliced portions fresh in the freezer for quick breakfast prep
• Silicone spatula – Flexible design helps scrape every bit of the precious mixture from the pot

Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications

Traditional Cincinnati Variations

• Extra spicy version – Double the cayenne pepper and add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for those who like heat with their breakfast
• Herb-forward style – Replace poultry seasoning with 1 teaspoon each fresh thyme and sage, finely minced, for a more pronounced herbal flavor
• Smoky variation – Substitute ½ cup beef stock with ½ cup dark beer and add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for deeper complexity

Meat Modifications

• All-pork version – Use 2 pounds ground pork instead of the pork-beef blend for a richer, more traditional German-style result
• Turkey goetta – Substitute 1 pound ground turkey for the beef while keeping the pork for a lighter but still flavorful option
• Venison variation – Replace beef with 1 pound ground venison for a gamier, more rustic flavor profile

Grain Alternatives

• Gluten-free adaptation – Ensure your steel-cut oats are certified gluten-free, as some processing facilities cross-contaminate with wheat
• Heartier texture – Add ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra crunch and protein
• Lighter version – Reduce oats to 2 cups and increase beef stock by ½ cup for a less dense final product

Flavor Enhancements

• Onion lovers – Sauté 1 large diced onion until caramelized and fold in during the last hour of cooking
• Cheese variation – Stir in 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese just before transferring to loaf pans for extra richness

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Key Nutritional Highlights

Each serving (approximately 4 ounces) provides roughly 280-320 calories with a substantial 18-20 grams protein from the dual meat sources. The steel-cut oats contribute 4-5 grams fiber and complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy throughout the morning. This recipe yields 22 servings total, making it an economical protein source for meal prep enthusiasts.

Health Benefits of Main Ingredients

Steel-cut oats are nutritional powerhouses, containing beta-glucan fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar. Unlike processed breakfast meats, this homemade version allows you to control sodium content while providing complete proteins with all essential amino acids from the pork and beef combination. The garlic powder and onion powder offer antioxidant compounds that support immune function, while the warming spices like nutmeg and white pepper aid digestion.

Dietary Considerations

This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free oats, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The high protein content makes it appropriate for low-carb diets when served in smaller portions. Each serving contains approximately 25-30 grams carbohydrates, primarily from the nutrient-dense oats rather than refined grains. The recipe is dairy-free as written, accommodating lactose-intolerant individuals.

Balanced Nutrition Profile

The combination of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats creates a well-rounded macronutrient profile that promotes satiety and stable energy levels. The long cooking process breaks down the oat fibers, making nutrients more bioavailable while maintaining the beneficial resistant starch content that supports gut health.

Smart Swaps and Ingredient Substitutions

Common Substitutions:

• Steel-cut oats → Pinhead oats (traditional choice) or thick-rolled oats (reduce cooking time by 10 minutes)
• Ground pork → Ground chicken thighs (maintain fat content) or Italian sausage (remove casings, reduce other seasonings)
• Beef stock → Chicken stock or vegetable stock (for milder flavor) or mushroom broth (for umami depth)
• Poultry seasoning → Italian seasoning plus ½ teaspoon sage for similar herbal complexity

Budget-Friendly Swaps:

• Ground beef (80/20) → Ground beef (85/15) (add 2 tablespoons olive oil to compensate for reduced fat)
• Fresh garlic powder → Granulated garlic (use same amount, slightly different texture)
• Low-sodium beef stock → Regular beef stock (reduce added salt by ½ teaspoon)
• White pepper → Black pepper (more economical, slightly different heat profile)

Pantry Emergency Substitutions:

• Bay leaves → 1 teaspoon dried thyme (different flavor but adds herbal notes)
• Cayenne pepper → Hot sauce (1 teaspoon) added at the end of cooking
• Nutmeg → Allspice or cinnamon (use half the amount for either substitute)

Pro Tips for Substitutions:

• When using Italian sausage, taste the mixture before adding additional salt, as sausage is pre-seasoned
• Vegetarian versions can substitute the meat with 2 cups mushroom-walnut mixture sautéed until deeply browned
• Store leftover stock in ice cube trays for easy portioning in future recipes

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

Carb Reduction Strategies:

• Reduce oats to 1½ cups and increase protein content with an additional ½ pound ground meat to lower overall carbohydrate content from 30g to 20g per serving
• Substitute half the oats with cauliflower rice that’s been pulsed in a food processor and sautéed until dry – this cuts carbs by approximately 40%
• Use shirataki rice (konjac-based) for 1 cup of the oats to dramatically reduce carbs while maintaining texture

Portion Control Modifications:

• Slice thinner at ¼-inch thickness instead of ½-inch to naturally reduce portion sizes while maintaining satisfaction
• Serve 3-ounce portions instead of standard 4-ounce servings to reduce carbs to approximately 15-18 grams per serving
• Pair with high-fiber vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts to increase volume without adding carbs

Blood Sugar Management Tips:

• Add extra protein by serving with 2 eggs or Greek yogurt to slow carbohydrate absorption and minimize blood sugar spikes
• Include healthy fats like avocado slices or nuts alongside goetta to further moderate glucose response
• Time consumption with physical activity when possible, as post-meal movement helps glucose uptake

Total Carb Reduction: These modifications can reduce carbohydrates from 30g to 12-15g per serving while maintaining the satisfying, hearty character that makes goetta special.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Beverage Pairings

The rich, savory flavors of goetta pair beautifully with bold coffee – try a medium-dark roast or cold brew to complement the meat’s richness without overwhelming the delicate oat texture. For beer lovers, a German wheat beer or amber lager echoes the dish’s Germanic roots, while fresh orange juice provides bright acidity that cuts through the richness. Black tea with a splash of milk offers a comforting, traditional pairing that won’t compete with the complex spice blend.

Side Dish Recommendations

Fried or scrambled eggs are the classic Cincinnati pairing – the creamy yolks create a luxurious sauce for the crispy goetta. Hash browns or home fries add textural contrast, while sautéed apples with cinnamon provide sweet relief from the savory intensity. Wilted spinach with garlic lightens the meal, and sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper offer fresh acidity that brightens each bite.

Complete Meal Ideas

Build a hearty German-American breakfast with goetta, over-easy eggs, thick-cut bacon, and buttered toast. For brunch entertaining, serve alongside fresh fruit salad, cheese grits, and maple syrup for drizzling. Create a breakfast sandwich using toasted English muffins, fried goetta, scrambled eggs, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Occasion Suggestions

Perfect for weekend family breakfasts, holiday morning traditions, or meal prep for busy weekdays. The make-ahead nature makes it ideal for camping trips or cabin getaways where you want hearty, satisfying meals without daily cooking effort.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting

Professional Cooking Techniques

The key to perfect goetta lies in patience during the stirring process – resist rushing the 1-2 hour cooking time as this develops the proper texture and allows flavors to meld completely. Stir in a figure-eight pattern to ensure even heat distribution and prevent hot spots from forming. Test doneness by dragging your spoon across the bottom – if the mixture doesn’t immediately flow back together, it’s ready for the pans.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

Crumbly texture usually results from insufficient mixing of the meat or inadequate cooking time – the mixture should be sticky and cohesive when properly prepared. Burnt bottom happens when heat is too high during the long cooking phase – keep it at the lowest possible setting and stir more frequently if needed. Loose consistency means more cooking time is needed – continue simmering until the mixture holds its shape when stirred.

Storage and Reheating Excellence

Pre-slice before freezing for ultimate convenience – wrap 4-slice portions in plastic wrap, then store in freezer bags for up to 1 year. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator rather than using microwave, which can create uneven texture. Reheat in cast iron over medium heat for best results, or use a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes if cooking multiple portions.

Make-Ahead Strategies

This recipe is meal prep perfection – make a double batch and freeze half for future weeks. Cool completely before wrapping to prevent condensation that can affect texture. Label with date and cooking instructions for family members who might be frying their own portions.

This Cincinnati breakfast tradition transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary through patience, proper technique, and the magic of slow cooking. Once you experience that perfect contrast of crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful interior, you’ll understand why generations of Cincinnati families have made goetta their weekend morning ritual. The beauty lies not just in the incredible taste, but in the make-ahead convenience that lets you enjoy restaurant-quality breakfast at home with minimal morning effort.