Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average meatloaf. The combination of juicy ground beef, breadcrumbs, herbs, and a luscious mushroom gravy takes this classic to the next level. The gravy adds a deep, earthy flavor that keeps every bite moist and flavorful. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and makes the perfect family meal or Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Meatloaf:
- Ground beef (80–85% lean)
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Milk
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Worcestershire sauce
- Ketchup
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried thyme
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- Butter
- Fresh mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- All-purpose flour
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Shape and bake: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared pan (or use a loaf pan). Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Prepare the mushroom gravy: While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms; cook for about 8–10 minutes until tender and golden.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and serve: Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve topped generously with the mushroom gravy and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 55 minutes for cooking.
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the meat mixture.
- Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh parsley, rosemary, or sage for a fragrant flavor boost.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer gravy.
- Glazed Meatloaf: Brush the top with ketchup or barbecue sauce before baking for a sweet, tangy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil. To freeze, wrap individual slices in foil or store the entire loaf in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep my meatloaf from drying out?
Use milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs for moisture, and avoid overbaking.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, the mushroom gravy can be made up to 2 days in advance and reheated gently before serving.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms all work well for this gravy.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for the flour in the gravy.
Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
Definitely. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Meatloaf and Mushroom Gravy?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered egg noodles are perfect sides.
Can I use onion soup mix in the meatloaf?
Yes, a packet of onion soup mix can enhance the flavor if you prefer a shortcut.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
Let it simmer a few extra minutes or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.
Conclusion
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is the definition of classic comfort food—moist, flavorful, and drenched in a rich, savory sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly recipe that turns simple ingredients into a satisfying, hearty meal. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or vegetables for a timeless dinner everyone will love.
PrintMeatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is a hearty, homestyle comfort dish featuring juicy, flavorful meatloaf topped with a rich, savory mushroom gravy. Perfectly seasoned and tender, this satisfying meal brings classic flavor and warmth to the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape into a loaf and place on the prepared baking sheet (or loaf pan). Bake for 45–55 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the mushroom gravy. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and onions; cook 8–10 minutes until tender and golden.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once meatloaf is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra moist meatloaf, don’t overmix the meat mixture.
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for deeper flavor.
- Add a splash of heavy cream to the gravy for extra richness.
- Make the gravy ahead of time and reheat before serving.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with gravy
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg