Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

Introduction

Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that combines a hearty, flavorful meatloaf with rich, savory brown gravy. This dish evokes nostalgia and warmth, making it a staple for family dinners and special occasions. The meatloaf is moist, tender, and packed with savory ingredients, while the gravy adds depth and a luscious finish that complements the meat perfectly. Paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, this dish is a complete, satisfying meal that everyone loves.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a timeless comfort food favorite and elevates it with a perfectly seasoned meatloaf and a velvety brown gravy. The meatloaf is flavorful, tender, and moist, and the gravy ties all the flavors together, making each bite more satisfying than the last. It’s a dish that feels homey yet special enough to serve to guests. The aroma of it baking fills the kitchen and creates an inviting atmosphere that is hard to resist.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it delivers the ultimate comfort food experience in one plate. The combination of the savory meatloaf and the rich brown gravy is irresistible. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for colder months or anytime you crave a cozy meal. The gravy keeps the meatloaf moist and adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a favorite for family meals and gatherings. It’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Brown Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Glaze (Optional):

• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients; mix until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
4. Spread optional glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Meanwhile, prepare brown gravy by melting butter in a skillet, whisking in flour, and gradually adding beef broth. Simmer until thickened. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes, slice, and serve with brown gravy.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
• Mix gently until all ingredients are incorporated; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and Glaze

• Form the mixture into a loaf shape about 8 inches long.
• Place in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
• Optional: Combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard and spread evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

• Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• The top should be slightly caramelized if glazed.

Step 5: Prepare the Brown Gravy

• In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.
• Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
• Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

• Remove meatloaf from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
• Slice into portions and serve hot, drizzled with brown gravy.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors.
• Spoon extra brown gravy over meatloaf slices and sides.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
• Let the meatloaf rest after baking to retain its juices.
• Adjust seasoning to taste; Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked meatloaf.

Variations

• Cheese-Stuffed: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside the meatloaf.
• Spicy Version: Mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne for a kick.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Boost: Add finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing (Cooked): Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Freezing (Uncooked): Shape meatloaf, wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months; bake directly after thawing overnight.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in a skillet with a little gravy.

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan for gravy
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk for gravy
• Meat thermometer

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day.

Q2: Can I use a mix of beef and pork?
Yes, a 50/50 mix keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Q3: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Use milk and egg in the mixture, avoid overmixing, and bake until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Q4: Can I make gluten-free meatloaf?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour (or cornstarch) for the gravy.

Q5: Can I freeze the meatloaf with gravy?
It’s best to freeze meatloaf and gravy separately to maintain texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is a comforting, hearty, and satisfying dish that combines tender, flavorful meat with rich, velvety gravy. Perfect for family dinners, weeknights, or special occasions, this classic recipe is simple to prepare yet full of flavor. The brown gravy enhances the meatloaf, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. This timeless comfort food will surely become a favorite in your home.