Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then let me introduce you to the magic of Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy. This classic comfort meal combines a juicy, herb-kissed meatloaf with a luscious, creamy mushroom gravy that elevates every bite. The deep umami of the mushrooms paired with the savory, tender beef makes this recipe an absolute winner for family dinners or cozy nights in. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for satisfying your soul and your taste buds all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy, just straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role. The ground beef brings rich flavor and juiciness, the breadcrumbs ensure the perfect texture, and fresh aromatics like onion and garlic deepen the taste. Meanwhile, the mushrooms and cream for the gravy add that velvety touch that transforms the dish from simple to spectacular.

• 2 pounds fresh ground beef: The hearty base that keeps our meatloaf moist and flavorful.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together and keeps the meatloaf tender.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet, savory crunch when cooked into the meat.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses garlic aroma without overpowering the dish.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatloaf’s shape.
• ¼ cup ketchup: Adds subtle tanginess and moisture.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings a deep, savory umami boost.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Imparts a hint of herby earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds warmth and subtle complexity.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced: The star ingredient in the rich mushroom gravy.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a silky base to cook mushrooms and make the gravy smooth.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the mushroom gravy beautifully.
• 2 cups beef broth: Gives depth and meaty richness to the gravy.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and softens the edges of the gravy’s flavor.

How to Make Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make sure your meatloaf doesn’t stick and comes out in perfect shape. This little prep sets the stage for an easy cleanup and a flawless loaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently toss everything together until it’s just combined. Pro tip: don’t overmix! You want the meatloaf to stay tender and juicy rather than dense and tough.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it into your prepared dish. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 160°F (71°C). Once it’s done, let it rest a few minutes to lock in the juices before slicing.

Step 4: Cook the Mushroom Gravy

While your meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown and release their beautiful earthy aroma, about 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and start thickening.

Step 5: Finish the Gravy

Gradually whisk in the beef broth, then the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens to a velvety consistency in about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This luscious mushroom gravy truly brings the meatloaf to a new level of comfort and flavor.

How to Serve Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also gives a fresh herbal note that complements the meatloaf’s rich flavors. For an extra touch of decadence, a few sautéed mushrooms on top never hurt either!

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong pairing this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up every bit of that mushroom gravy. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will bring the perfect balance to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the meatloaf and stack it with layers of sautéed mushrooms between each slice before drizzling with gravy. Or serve individual mini meatloaves in ramekins topped with mushroom sauce for an elegant, personalized dinner experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatloaf with mushroom gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the gravy and meatloaf together helps the flavors meld even more deliciously overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Wrap slices of meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or freeze the whole loaf with gravy in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the meat. Add a splash of broth or cream if the gravy thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative, but you may want to add a touch of extra fat like olive oil or butter to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

What type of mushrooms are best for the gravy?

Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are perfect for this recipe. They hold up well when cooked and provide that classic mushroom flavor we want for the gravy.

Can I make the mushroom gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently on the stove while stirring before serving to get it back to that smooth consistency.

Do I need a meat thermometer to bake the meatloaf?

While not absolutely necessary, a meat thermometer is highly recommended for perfectly cooked meatloaf. It ensures the inside reaches the safe temperature of 160°F without overbaking and drying out.

What’s the secret to moist meatloaf?

Using breadcrumbs, eggs, and a mix of flavorful liquids like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce helps retain moisture and keep your meatloaf tender rather than dry.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy in every bite. It’s straightforward enough for everyday cooking but impressive enough for special family dinners. Don’t wait to try making this at home—once you taste that rich mushroom gravy pooling over the tender meatloaf, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite!

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