If you are searching for the ultimate comfort food, this Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe will instantly become one of your favorites. It takes the classic, hearty meatloaf to a whole new level by topping it with a luscious, creamy mushroom gravy that’s rich, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Every bite offers a perfect balance of savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and tender mushrooms in a silky sauce, making this dish a wonderful centerpiece for any family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe stars simple but vital ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component enhances the dish, whether it’s the breadcrumbs keeping the meatloaf moist or the fresh mushrooms lending earthiness to the gravy.
- 2 pounds fresh ground beef: Choose lean but flavorful beef for the best texture without excess grease.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Acts as a binder and keeps the meatloaf tender.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a gentle punch of aromatic flavor.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps hold the meatloaf together with added richness.
- ¼ cup ketchup: Brings a sweet tang that brightens the meat’s savory profile.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Offers umami and complexity to the blend.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides an earthy undertone enhancing the overall flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other ingredients.
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced: The star of the mushroom gravy, lending body and earthiness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to sauté mushrooms and form a roux for the gravy.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the mushroom gravy to a silky consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds a flavorful base for the gravy.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess for a velvety finish to the sauce.
How to Make Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready. Grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper, providing a non-stick surface that makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the meatloaf from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use gentle hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything just until combined—you want to avoid compacting it too much, so the meatloaf stays tender and juicy.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape your meat mixture into a loaf, roughly the size of a standard loaf pan, and place it in your prepared dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To be sure it’s perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer—your target internal temperature is 160°F (71°C). This step guarantees juicy meat without overcooking.
Step 4: Make the Mushroom Gravy
While the meatloaf bakes, melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown, which concentrates their amazing flavor. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about two minutes to cook out the raw taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly, and let it simmer until thickened. Finally, stir in the heavy cream for a gorgeously rich gravy that pools perfectly over your slices of meatloaf.
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once your meatloaf is out of the oven, give it a few minutes to rest. This resting time helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every serving moist. Slice the meatloaf, plate it, and generously ladle over the mushroom gravy for an absolutely mouthwatering presentation.
How to Serve Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the mushroom gravy adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish. For a little extra flair, a few sautéed mushrooms on top look lovely and amplify that mushroom love.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes are the ultimate sidekick to this Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe, soaking up all that luscious gravy. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans offer a welcome crunch and contrasting textures, making the meal feel balanced and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to step up your presentation game, try slicing the meatloaf and arranging slices like a fan on a cut board or platter, then drizzle the mushroom gravy over. Serving it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add freshness and a bright contrast to the rich flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover meatloaf slices along with any mushroom gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect ready-to-eat comfort meal during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe longer, slice the meatloaf and freeze portions separately, wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze the mushroom gravy in a separate container. Both can be stored up to 3 months for delicious, convenient meals on demand.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the meatloaf slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through to keep them from drying out. Warm the mushroom gravy separately in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, then pour over the meatloaf just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind those meats tend to be leaner and may require a little extra moisture to keep the meatloaf juicy.
Is there a way to make the gravy without heavy cream?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with whole milk or even a splash of sour cream for a lighter but still creamy mushroom gravy. The texture will be a bit thinner but just as tasty.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the mushroom gravy and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatloaf mixture. This keeps the flavors intact while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?
You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape the loaf up to a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. The mushroom gravy is best made fresh but can be quickly reheated if prepared ahead.
What is the best way to ensure the meatloaf stays moist?
Gentle mixing of the ingredients, careful measuring of breadcrumbs, and avoiding overbaking are key. Also, allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain moisture for a juicy result every time.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about a homemade Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe that warms the heart and soul. It’s one of those timeless dishes that brings people together around the table, evoking nostalgia and comfort with every forkful. I truly encourage you to try making this recipe—it’s straightforward, richly flavored, and destined to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Once you do, it just might be your new go-to comfort classic.
Print
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic meatloaf recipe combining ground beef with aromatic herbs and spices, baked to perfection and paired with a rich, creamy mushroom gravy. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds fresh ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Mushroom Gravy
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Shape and Bake: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted in the center reads 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Make Mushroom Gravy: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and continue cooking until the gravy thickens. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
- Rest and Serve: Once the meatloaf is done, allow it to rest for a few minutes outside the oven to retain juices. Slice the meatloaf and serve warm topped with the creamy mushroom gravy.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked safely to 160°F (71°C).
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps keep it moist and tender.
- The mushroom gravy can be made ahead and reheated for convenience.
- For a healthier option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with oats for a gluten-free option if using certified gluten-free oats.
