Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy Recipe

Introduction

Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is the epitome of comfort food. Unlike the ketchup-glazed version, this recipe pairs the tender, juicy loaf with a rich, savory brown gravy that elevates it into a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs dish. It feels like the kind of meal your grandmother might have cooked—simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying.

What sets this recipe apart is the gravy. As the meatloaf bakes, it develops a depth of flavor, and when paired with a silky, beefy brown gravy, the dish transforms into a restaurant-quality dinner you can easily make at home. Every bite is moist, flavorful, and comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines two of my favorite comfort foods: juicy meatloaf and velvety gravy. Instead of sweetness from a ketchup glaze, you get a savory, umami-rich sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s hearty without being overwhelming and feels like the kind of meal that warms your soul after a long day.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice, and it instantly becomes a satisfying, well-rounded dinner. Plus, leftovers are just as delicious (if not more so) the next day.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Rich and Hearty: The brown gravy makes it extra special and flavorful.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Pairs well with a wide variety of sides.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday pantry ingredients.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per serving: ~410 kcal

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Brown Gravy:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix gently with hands or a spatula until just combined.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Brown Gravy

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes, until lightly golden.
3. Slowly whisk in beef broth, a little at a time, to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Slice meatloaf and spoon rich brown gravy over the top before serving.

How to Serve

• Classic serving: with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Over buttered noodles or rice for a full meal.
• Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Leftovers make an excellent open-faced sandwich with gravy poured on top.

Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for the juiciest loaf.
• Do not overmix the meat mixture; it makes the loaf dense.
• Always let meatloaf rest before slicing—it keeps it juicy.
• For a richer gravy, replace ½ cup beef broth with red wine.
• Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor.

Variations

• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for beef, and use chicken broth in the gravy.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Spicy Meatloaf: Add cayenne or chili flakes, and a dash of hot sauce in the gravy.
• Vegetable Boosted: Add grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap the loaf in bacon before baking for smoky flavor.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Shape the loaf, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Freeze slices or the whole loaf (wrapped well) for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
• Gravy Storage: Store separately in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Meat thermometer
• Saucepan & whisk (for gravy)

Conclusion

Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is comfort food at its best—juicy, savory, and deeply satisfying. The rich beef gravy transforms the humble meatloaf into something hearty and elegant enough for both weeknight dinners and Sunday suppers.

This recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves classic comfort dishes. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it part of your regular rotation!

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Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy Recipe

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Meat

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 65 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: per serving: ~410 kcal

Description

Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is the epitome of comfort food. Unlike the ketchup-glazed version, this recipe pairs the tender, juicy loaf with a rich, savory brown gravy that elevates it into a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Brown Gravy:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix gently with hands or a spatula until just combined.
3. Step 3: Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake: Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
5. Step 5: Make the Brown Gravy: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes, until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in beef broth, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Serve: Slice meatloaf and spoon rich brown gravy over the top before serving.

Keywords: Homestyle Meatloaf with Brown Gravy Recipe