This meatloaf is the comfort food we all love! It’s made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a mix of tasty spices. Then, it gets topped with a rich brown gravy that makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist the warm, savory smell while it bakes. I always make extra gravy—because let’s face it, more sauce means more happiness on the plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 beef for a nice balance between flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or chicken, but just keep an eye on moisture since they’re leaner.
Breadcrumbs: You can use store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own from stale bread. For gluten-free options, consider almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I personally prefer Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions are my favorite here for their sweetness. If you want a sharper flavor, you could substitute with red onions or shallots.
Ketchup: This adds moisture and a slight sweetness. If you’re low on ketchup, barbecue sauce works too! It gives a different twist but still delicious.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
A common concern with meatloaf is drying it out. Here are my tips to keep it moist:
- Use a mix of ground beef with adequate fat content (like 80/20) for flavor and moisture.
- Incorporate milk and eggs in the mixture; they help bind and add moisture.
- Avoid overmixing your meat blend; just mix until combined to keep it tender.
Lastly, letting it rest after baking is crucial—this helps redistribute juices for a tasty slice!
Meatloaf With Brown Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meatloaf recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to bake, so expect a total time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s worth the wait for that warm, home-cooked flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly and thoroughly. If you have a loaf pan, grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix Up the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme. Mix it gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Make sure not to overmix; we want a tender meatloaf!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Don’t worry about it looking perfect; it’s going to taste amazing either way!
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop your meatloaf in the oven and bake it for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You’ll be able to smell the deliciousness filling your kitchen. Yum!
5. Make the Brown Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, let’s whip up the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and keep whisking for about 2-3 minutes, until it’s golden brown. This will give your gravy great flavor!
6. Add the Broth:
Slowly pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while continuing to whisk. Keep cooking and whisking until the gravy thickens nicely, which should take about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust according to your preference!
7. Slice and Serve:
When the meatloaf is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps redistribute the juices. After it rests, slice it up and serve with the warm brown gravy poured generously over the top.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color. Now, dig in and savor this hearty, classic meal! Enjoy every bite of your homemade meatloaf and gravy! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats are drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or a splash of broth to help maintain moisture in the meatloaf.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for Smaller Portions?
If you need a smaller meatloaf, you can easily halve the ingredients. A smaller loaf will take about 30-40 minutes to bake. Just check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C).
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven or microwave.
