Homestyle Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy: Comfort Classic (Print Version)

Hearty Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy brings ultimate comfort. Learn my easy recipe for this savory classic, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 75 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: Contains Beef, Dairy, Gluten

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1/2 cup whole milk
07 - 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
08 - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 tsp salt
10 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Mushroom Gravy Essentials

11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
15 - 2 cups beef broth
16 - 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

→ Finishing Touches

17 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

→ Optional Extras

18 - A pinch of smoked paprika in the meatloaf
19 - Splash of red wine in the gravy

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, finely diced onion and garlic, panko breadcrumbs, the egg, milk, a good splash of Worcestershire, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Now, get in there with your hands! Mix it all gently but thoroughly. Overmixing makes for a tough meatloaf, and nobody wants that. I always feel like a kid playing with mud at this stage, it’s a bit messy but so satisfying.
02 - Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape it into a loaf, roughly 9x5 inches. Don't press it too tightly; a looser pack helps keep it tender. I usually make it a bit rustic, not too perfect. Then, spread that ketchup glaze all over the top. This isn't just for looks; it caramelizes beautifully and adds a lovely tang. I always make sure to get the sides a bit too, for extra flavor.
03 - Pop that beautiful loaf into your preheated oven. It'll need about 60-75 minutes to cook through. You're looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). While it bakes, your kitchen will start smelling absolutely incredible—that classic savory aroma. I always peek in around the 50-minute mark, just to make sure it's browning nicely. If it seems to be getting too dark too fast, a loose foil tent works wonders.
04 - Once it's done, pull it out of the oven and, this is important, let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. Don't slice into it immediately! This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a super moist and tender Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy. I've been impatient before, and let me tell you, it ended in a drier, crumbly mess. Use this time to start on your gravy, or just breathe in the delicious smells.
05 - While the meatloaf rests, melt a couple tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced mushrooms and cook them until they're nicely browned and softened, maybe 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this part; browning the mushrooms builds so much flavor. Stir in a little more minced garlic and your fresh thyme, letting them cook for another minute until fragrant. Oh, the smell at this stage is just heavenly, honestly.
06 - Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step is key for thickening. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that's pure flavor! Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it's thickened to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Slice your rested Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy and smother it in this glorious gravy. Pure bliss!

# Notes:

01 - Don't skip the panade for a tender meatloaf, it really makes a difference.
02 - Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days, perfect for quick lunches!
03 - Tried using ground turkey once; it was okay, but beef just hits different here.
04 - Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to catch all that amazing gravy.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large mixing bowl
02 - baking sheet
03 - parchment paper
04 - skillet
05 - whisk
06 - meat thermometer

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 28g
Total Carbohydrate: 20g
Protein: 30g

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