This meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and filling. With juicy ground beef and a savory brown gravy, it’s perfect for any family dinner!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip up this dish! Just mix the meat, shape it, and let it bake while the smell fills the kitchen. It’s a winner every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work too, but they might be drier, so consider adding extra moisture.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan of onions, shallots or onion powder can be a good substitute. Both provide flavor without the texture of onion chunks.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are great for binding the meatloaf. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Some people like to use oats instead for a healthier twist!
Milk: This keeps the meatloaf moist. If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk can be used as an alternative without losing much flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a tangy depth to the meatloaf. If you don’t have it, soy sauce can serve as a good substitute. Just keep an eye on the saltiness!
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Bake Meatloaf?
Shaping your meatloaf properly is key to a great texture and even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- After mixing the ingredients, gently form the mixture into a loaf shape. Don’t overwork it; this keeps it tender.
- Place it on a lined baking sheet instead of a loaf pan for a crispy exterior. If you prefer a loaf pan, it will help keep shape and moisture.
- Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up before slicing.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meatloaf! If you feel adventurous, try adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Meatloaf With Brown Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 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 pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then around 1 hour to bake. Don’t forget to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your meatloaf bakes evenly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or you can line it with parchment paper for easy lifting later.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and dried thyme if you’re using it. Mix everything gently using your hands or a spoon until it’s well mixed, but don’t overmix—this helps keep the meatloaf tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan. Make sure it’s evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
5. Prepare the Brown Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, you can make the brown gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and cook, whisking continuously, until the mixture turns golden brown and bubbly—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Gravy:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Bring it to a simmer and cook until it thickens, which will take about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Rest and Slice the Meatloaf:
When the meatloaf is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice. Carefully remove it from the pan and slice it into portions.
8. Serve with Gravy:
Spoon the brown gravy generously over the meatloaf slices. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetable sides for a comforting meal!
Enjoy your delicious meatloaf with savory brown gravy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but it can be drier. To avoid this, add a bit more milk or an extra egg to keep the meatloaf moist.
How Do I Prevent My Meatloaf From Falling Apart?
To help your meatloaf hold its shape, ensure you’re using enough binders like breadcrumbs and eggs. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense loaf that crumbles easily.
Can I Make the Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf up to a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply bake it as directed.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great reheated in the microwave or oven, and you can enjoy it cold in a sandwich too!
