Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made meatloaf, and when paired with a savory mushroom gravy, it transforms into a dish that’s full of rich flavors and tender textures. This meatloaf recipe is simple yet packed with delicious ingredients like ground beef, fresh onions, and garlic, topped off with a smooth and flavorful mushroom gravy. The mushrooms in the gravy bring an earthy, umami-packed element that elevates the dish to another level, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering. Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts, this meal is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

This meatloaf with mushroom gravy is a classic comfort food that is filling and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal at home.

2. Rich Flavors

The combination of seasoned ground beef and savory mushrooms in the gravy creates a rich, savory flavor profile that enhances the overall dish.

3. Simple Ingredients

With easily accessible ingredients like ground beef, onions, garlic, and mushrooms, you can create a delicious, home-cooked meal without any hassle.

4. Leftovers Make Great Sandwiches

Not only is this meal fantastic when freshly made, but the leftovers can be turned into delicious meatloaf sandwiches with gravy!

5. Versatile Sides

The meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a side salad, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (80/20 blend)
• Fresh cremini mushrooms
• Fresh garlic
• Fresh onions
• Breadcrumbs
• Worcestershire sauce
• Other seasonings (such as salt, pepper, and herbs)

For the Mushroom Gravy:

• Fresh cremini mushrooms
• Garlic
• Onions
• Beef broth

Variations

• Add Veggies to Meatloaf: You can finely chop vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers and mix them into the meatloaf mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meatloaf mix or the gravy to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: For an extra indulgent twist, add shredded cheese to the center of the meatloaf before baking for a gooey surprise inside.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

Let the ground beef come to room temperature before mixing. Finely chop the onions and garlic. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, garlic, and your choice of seasonings. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.

Step 2: Test the Seasoning

Before shaping the meatloaf, take a small portion of the mixture and form a small patty. Cook it in a pan to test the seasoning. Adjust the seasoning in the mixture as necessary, then shape the remaining meat into a loaf with a slight dome at the top.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which should take around 45-60 minutes depending on the size of the loaf.

Step 4: Make the Mushroom Gravy

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. Sauté the sliced mushrooms in a little butter or oil until they are golden brown. Add the garlic and onions and cook until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Liquid

Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer and cook down for about 5-10 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve the Meatloaf

Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf with the mushroom gravy poured over the top.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Loaf Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan helps the meatloaf cook more evenly and prevents the bottom from burning.
• Let the Meatloaf Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
• Gravy Prep: You can make the mushroom gravy up to two days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop before serving.
• Gentle Mixing: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, do so gently to avoid a dense, tough loaf. Over-mixing can lead to a firmer texture.
• Create a Shallow Trench: When assembling the meatloaf, create a shallow trench down the center of the loaf for the gravy. This ensures that the gravy soaks into the meat while baking.

How to Serve

Serve the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combination, or pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts for a slightly crunchy contrast to the tender meatloaf. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad would complement the dish beautifully as well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your meatloaf with mushroom gravy has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For sandwiches, slice the leftover meatloaf and serve with additional gravy.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatloaf (without the gravy) for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen meatloaf in the oven at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The mushroom gravy can also be frozen separately and reheated on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat the gravy, add a little beef broth to the pan and stir until the gravy is warmed through and reaches your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat for the meatloaf?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork in place of beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary, especially with leaner meats.

2. Can I use dried mushrooms for the gravy?

Fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best flavor, but if using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in hot water before cooking.

3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked properly.

4. Can I make this recipe without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a combination of vinegar and sugar for a similar depth of flavor.

5. Can I freeze the gravy?

Yes, the mushroom gravy can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with additional broth if necessary.

6. How can I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, you can simmer it longer or mix in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water) until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?

Yes, you can use pre-sliced mushrooms to save time, but fresh whole mushrooms are preferred for a more robust flavor.

8. Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

9. Can I bake the meatloaf in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a baking dish, cast-iron skillet, or even a sheet pan if you don’t have a loaf pan.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf and the gravy in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake and serve.

Conclusion

This meatloaf with mushroom gravy is the perfect balance of hearty, savory flavors that will please everyone at the table. With tender ground beef, a rich and flavorful gravy, and a few simple ingredients, it’s an easy-to-make meal that brings comfort to any occasion. Whether served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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