Name: Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; Prepare the Meatloaf: Allow the ground beef to come to room temperature.; Finely chop the onions and garlic. Set aside.; In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, garlic, and seasonings.; Gently mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat mixture.; To test the seasoning, fry a small patty and taste it. Adjust seasonings if necessary.; Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, making sure the top is slightly domed for even cooking.; Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C), about 1 hour.; Make the Mushroom Gravy: While the meatloaf is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the mushrooms until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.; Add the chopped garlic and onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes.; Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook until the gravy thickens, about 10-15 minutes.; Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.; Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.; Serve with the mushroom gravy spooned over the meatloaf.

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There’s nothing quite like a classic meatloaf topped with savory mushroom gravy to bring comfort and flavor to the table. This meatloaf recipe combines a blend of fresh cremini mushrooms, garlic, onions, and Worcestershire sauce to create a rich, flavorful loaf, while the homemade mushroom gravy adds a layer of indulgent creaminess. Paired with mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts, this dish makes for the perfect family meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or looking to make extra for delicious leftovers, this meatloaf with mushroom gravy is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

Meatloaf with mushroom gravy is a quintessential comfort food that is both filling and satisfying. The savory flavors make it the perfect meal for any occasion.

2. Rich, Flavorful Gravy

The homemade mushroom gravy adds a rich, savory depth to the meatloaf, complementing the flavors of the beef and seasonings perfectly.

3. Simple Ingredients

The recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients like ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and garlic—making it easy to prepare yet packed with flavor.

4. Great Leftovers

This dish makes excellent leftovers. The flavors only improve the next day, and it’s perfect for sandwiches or served over rice or potatoes.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the seasonings or swap out the mushrooms for another variety, depending on your personal taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

Ground beef (80/20 blend)
Fresh cremini mushrooms
Fresh garlic
Fresh onions
Breadcrumbs
Worcestershire sauce
Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, thyme, etc.)

Mushroom Gravy

Fresh cremini mushrooms
Garlic
Onions
Beef broth

Variations

1. Add Cheese to the Meatloaf

For a cheesy twist, mix shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the meatloaf before baking.

2. Herb Variations

You can add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary to the meatloaf for extra flavor.

3. Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey

For a lighter version of the meatloaf, swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey.

4. Make It Spicy

If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf or gravy.

5. Vegetarian Gravy

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth in place of beef broth and make sure the gravy is made without any meat drippings.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

Let the ground beef come to room temperature. Finely chop the onions, mushrooms, and garlic.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, garlic, and any seasonings. Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Test Seasoning

Before forming the meatloaf, test the seasoning by cooking a small patty in a skillet to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet, slightly doming the top so the juices run off during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Prepare the Mushroom Gravy

While the meatloaf is baking, sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic in a pan until the mushrooms are golden brown and the onions are softened.

Step 7: Add Beef Broth

Add the beef broth to the pan and bring to a simmer. Let the gravy simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve

Once the meatloaf has rested, slice it and serve with the mushroom gravy poured over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use a Heavy-Bottomed Loaf Pan

A heavy-bottomed loaf pan helps distribute heat evenly and ensures your meatloaf cooks thoroughly without drying out.

2. Let the Meatloaf Rest

Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 15 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.

3. Make Gravy Ahead

You can make the mushroom gravy up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.

4. Mix Gently

Overmixing the meatloaf ingredients can result in a dense loaf. Mix everything just enough to combine.

5. Create a Shallow Trench

When shaping the meatloaf, create a shallow trench in the center to help the gravy soak into the meat more effectively.

How to Serve

Meatloaf with mushroom gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a side of steamed vegetables. The rich gravy soaks into the potatoes, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. You can also serve it with rice or a simple side salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, slice the meatloaf and place it in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze the meatloaf and gravy separately. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up in the oven or on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices of meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Warm the mushroom gravy on the stovetop.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter option. However, it might be a little less flavorful than beef, so you may need to adjust the seasonings.

2. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If the gravy is too thin, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce it. Alternatively, whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

3. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the meatloaf?

You can add grated carrots, zucchini, or finely chopped bell peppers for extra moisture and flavor.

5. Is the mushroom gravy vegetarian?

The mushroom gravy is not vegetarian due to the use of beef broth. However, you can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

6. How long do I bake the meatloaf?

Bake the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making my own?

While homemade gravy adds a great flavor, store-bought gravy can be used as a shortcut. Simply heat it up and pour it over the meatloaf.

8. Can I freeze the mushroom gravy?

Yes, the gravy can be frozen separately from the meatloaf for up to 3 months.

9. What side dishes go well with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad are excellent choices to serve alongside meatloaf.

10. Can I cook the meatloaf in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the meatloaf in a slow cooker. Place the shaped meatloaf in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Conclusion

This meatloaf with mushroom gravy recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. The combination of the tender meatloaf and the savory mushroom gravy makes for a hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and the option to customize flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Enjoy!