Why Make This Recipe
Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is a beloved dish that brings comfort to many dinner tables. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. When you serve this meatloaf, the aroma fills the home, inviting everyone to the table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use affordable ingredients to create something delicious and satisfying.
How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Additional ketchup for topping
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, ketchup, eggs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Top with additional ketchup if desired.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the brown gravy by heating beef broth in a saucepan. If thickening is desired, mix cornstarch with a little cold water and add to the broth, stirring until the gravy thickens.
- Serve the meatloaf sliced with brown gravy over the top.
How to Serve Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is best served warm. Slice the meatloaf and place it on plates. Drizzle the delicious brown gravy over the meatloaf. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve extra gravy on the side for those who want more.
How to Store Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
To store leftover meatloaf, let it cool completely first. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better blending.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture; mix just until combined to keep it tender.
- You can add different seasonings or vegetables to customize the flavor.
- Try using different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter option.
Variation
For a new twist, consider adding cheese or herbs to the meatloaf mixture. You can also mix in grated carrots or chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
FAQs
1. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
2. Can I cook meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Shape the meatloaf and place it in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until cooked through.
3. What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be made into sandwiches, chopped into a salad, or reheated with pasta for a quick meal.
Classic Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf topped with rich brown gravy, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Additional ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, ketchup, eggs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Top with additional ketchup if desired.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the brown gravy by heating beef broth in a saucepan. If thickening is desired, mix cornstarch with a little cold water and add to the broth, stirring until the gravy thickens.
- Serve the meatloaf sliced with brown gravy over the top.
Notes
Best served warm with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
