Meatloaf with Brown Gravy – Classic Recipe

Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the savory depth of flavor, and the tender texture all come together to create a comforting dish that feels like home. Meatloaf is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings families together around the dinner table. This recipe will not only help you whip up a traditional meatloaf, but it will also teach you how to make an irresistible brown gravy that ties the dish together.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the brown gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for cooking the meatloaf evenly and getting that crusty exterior we all love.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.

3. Shape the Meatloaf
   Transfer the meat mixture to a lined or greased loaf pan. Form it into a loaf shape, ensuring it’s compact but not too tightly packed. If you prefer, you can shape it on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a crustier exterior.

4. Bake the Meatloaf
   Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If you want, during the last 15 minutes of baking, you can brush a little extra ketchup on top for added flavor and a beautiful glaze.

5. Make the Gravy
   While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s a light golden brown.

6. Add Broth to the Roux
   Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Stir in the onion powder and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.

7. Rest the Meatloaf
   Once the meatloaf is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is important; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist meatloaf.

8. Serve with Gravy
   Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve it hot, topped with the homemade brown gravy. Enjoy your hearty meal with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables!

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Choose the Right Meat: For a flavorful meatloaf, opt for ground beef that is 80/20. This blend has the right fat content to keep the loaf juicy.

2. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it moist and makes slicing easier.

3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, such as parsley or oregano, to give it a personal touch.

4. Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture.

5. Make it Ahead: Meatloaf can be prepared in advance. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Variations and Substitutions

• Turkey Meatloaf: For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for beef. Just be mindful of the extra moisture; turkey can be less fatty.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the milk or replace it with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.
• Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent twist, shred some cheddar or mozzarella into the meat mixture for a melty surprise in every bite.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing Leftovers: After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Meatloaf freezes wonderfully. Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight first.

FAQ

1. Can I use other meats for meatloaf?
Yes! You can mix different types of meat for flavor. Ground pork, lamb, or chicken can all be used, but adjust seasonings to complement the meat.

2. What can I serve with meatloaf?
Traditional sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the gravy.

3. How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for beef and pork, and 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

4. Can I prepare meatloaf mixtures ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

5. Is meatloaf good for meal prep?
Yes! Meatloaf is excellent for meal prepping as it holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely.

Nutrition Estimate

This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy recipe yields approximately 6 servings, with each serving containing about 320 calories, 24 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of fat. It’s a hearty dish that satisfies without sacrificing nutrition. Enjoy with a side of veggies for a balanced meal!

Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish full of memories and flavors that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this meal is sure to bring comfort and joy to your dining experience. Dive into this classic recipe and let the savory goodness take you back to simpler times!

Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy combines tender ground beef with savory seasonings and is topped with a rich brown gravy, creating a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the meatloaf

• 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor) Choose 80/20 for moisture and flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup milk
• 0.5 cup finely chopped onion
• 0.25 cup ketchup
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the brown gravy

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix until just combined.
• Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.

Cooking the Meatloaf

• Bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Brush with ketchup during the last 15 minutes if desired.

Making the Gravy

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Gradually whisk in the beef broth, then add onion powder and season with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Serving

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, topped with brown gravy.

Notes

For best results, use 80/20 beef for juiciness. You can add desired veggies or herbs to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

Keyword brown gravy, Comfort Food, Family Recipe, hearty meal, Meatloaf