Description
A classic comfort food dish made with seasoned ground beef, breadcrumbs, and simple pantry ingredients, baked until tender and topped with a rich homemade brown gravy. This old fashioned meatloaf with brown gravy is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner served with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for one 9×5-inch meatloaf – about 6 servings):
For the Meatloaf:
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
¾ cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon paprika
For the Brown Gravy:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Make the Brown Gravy
While the meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
Step 6: Season the Gravy
Add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 7: Serve
Slice the meatloaf and pour warm brown gravy over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Moist Meatloaf Tip: Use milk and breadcrumbs to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
- Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of Lipton onion soup mix for a deeper onion flavor.
- Make Ahead: The meat mixture can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer Friendly: Cooked meatloaf freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked / Stovetop Gravy
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
