This meatloaf is hearty and comforting, made with ground beef and spices, topped with rich brown gravy. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug!
When I make this dish, I can’t help but think about cozy family dinners. And let’s be real, the gravy makes everything better. I love serving it with mashed potatoes!
Making meatloaf is super easy. Just mix, shape, and bake! It’s perfect for meal prep, and my family always asks for seconds. Who knew comfort food could be so simple?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, though the texture may differ slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are common, but for a healthier twist, try whole wheat or even crushed crackers. If gluten-free is your goal, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats!
Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can substitute with any milk or even unsweetened almond milk if you’re lactose intolerant.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, soy sauce can be a great alternative. Just keep in mind that it may make the meatloaf a bit saltier.
How Do I Keep the Meatloaf Tender?
Keeping meatloaf tender is all about the mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Follow these tips for a soft and moist texture:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the meat mixture. This helps keep moisture locked in.
- Combine the ingredients gently with your hands until just mixed. Think of it as a light knead rather than vigorous mixing.
- Shape the loaf by hand instead of using a pan if you prefer, as this allows for better airflow during baking.
Remember, letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing helps it hold its shape and moisture, making for perfect slices every time!
Meatloaf With Brown Gravy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for glazing)
For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then approximately 1 hour to bake. After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Total time is around 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a loaf pan and either grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until they become soft and mushy. This step will help keep the meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and thyme (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix to keep it tender!
4. Shape the Loaf:
Next, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared loaf pan. If you like, spread ketchup over the top for a nice glaze.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer to be sure it’s cooked through.
6. Make the Brown Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, you can make the gravy! In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and bubbling.
7. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep this warm while the meatloaf finishes baking.
8. Rest and Slice:
Once the meatloaf is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside when you slice it.
9. Serve:
Slice up the meatloaf and serve it drizzled generously with the warm brown gravy. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy this classic comfort dish best served with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be slightly drier, so you might want to add a little extra moisture, like a splash more milk or an additional egg.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use rolled oats, crushed crackers, or even cooked rice in a pinch. Just make sure the substitute can help bind the meatloaf together.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s also great cold on a sandwich!
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
