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Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

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This Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy combines ground beef with breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, and herbs, creating a tender and flavorful main dish. The meat is carefully seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and classic spices, then baked until perfectly done. What makes this recipe special is the homemade mushroom gravy, made with sautéed mushrooms, butter, and cream, creating a rich sauce that perfectly complements the meatloaf. This comfort food classic serves 8 people and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to prepare and cook.
A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Sat, 18 Jan 2025 11:56:35 GMT
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Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy | myhomemaderecipe.com

A tender, juicy meatloaf draped in rich mushroom gravy brings back memories of Sunday family dinners at my grandmother's table. This classic comfort dish transforms humble ground beef into something truly special, where each slice carries the perfect balance of seasonings and that irresistible savory mushroom sauce that makes everyone reach for seconds.

I discovered this combination years ago when experimenting with different gravies, and the moment I paired earthy mushrooms with my mother's classic meatloaf recipe, I knew I'd found something special. My children, who usually push mushrooms aside, actually ask for extra gravy with this dish.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Ground Beef (80/20 blend): The fat content is crucial here - I've tried leaner cuts, but they produce a drier meatloaf. The 80/20 ratio gives you that perfect juicy texture while still holding its shape
  • Fresh Mushrooms: Choose cremini mushrooms with firm caps and dry surfaces. They have a richer flavor than white button mushrooms and create an incredible depth in the gravy
  • Fresh Garlic and Onions: These aromatic foundations need to be finely chopped - I've learned that larger pieces can make the meatloaf fall apart when slicing

Detailed Cooking Instructions

  • Let your meat come to room temperature while preparing other ingredients for even cooking.
  • Finely chop onions until they're almost paste-like for better texture.
  • Mix meatloaf gently using fingertips to combine ingredients.
  • Test seasoning by cooking a small patty before shaping the loaf.
  • Shape the loaf with a slight dome on top for better gravy coverage.
  • Sauté mushrooms until deep golden before adding liquid for rich flavor.
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Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy | myhomemaderecipe.com

Growing up, mushrooms were always my favorite part of any dish. I remember watching my grandmother carefully selecting them at the market, teaching me to look for firm caps and earthy aroma. Now, I find myself doing the same careful selection, knowing it's the foundation of an exceptional gravy.

The Art of Seasoning

In my years of perfecting this recipe, I've discovered that layering flavors makes all the difference. Each component - the meatloaf and the gravy - needs proper seasoning on its own before they come together. The Worcestershire sauce adds that mysterious depth that people can't quite identify but keep coming back for more.

Temperature Matters

  • Start with room-temperature ingredients for even cooking
  • Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy pin it
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy | myhomemaderecipe.com

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for the perfect vehicle to soak up the gravy
  • Add a bright, acidic side dish like roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze

Leftover Magic

  • Leftover slices make incredible sandwiches when served on toasted sourdough with extra gravy
  • Make a double batch to enjoy the next day

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Mix ingredients gently for a tender result
  • Create a shallow trench along the top of the loaf to catch gravy
  • Add a splash of beef broth when reheating gravy for a silky consistency

After years of making this recipe, it's become more than just a meal - it's a tradition in my home. The aroma of it baking still brings my family to the kitchen, just like it did in my grandmother's house years ago. There's something magical about a recipe that can create not just satisfied appetites, but cherished memories around the dinner table.

Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy pin it
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy | myhomemaderecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Make the gravy fresh when ready to serve.
→ How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), usually after 50-60 minutes of baking at 350°F.
→ Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it well and store the gravy separately for best results.
→ What can I serve with this meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use a mixture of ground meats.

Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

A classic meatloaf made with seasoned ground beef and topped with a rich mushroom gravy, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
80 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ For Meatloaf

01 2 pounds fresh ground beef
02 1 cup breadcrumbs
03 1 onion, finely chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 2 large eggs, beaten
06 ¼ cup ketchup
07 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
08 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ For Mushroom Gravy

11 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
12 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
13 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
14 2 cups beef broth
15 ½ cup heavy cream
16 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C). While you're waiting, grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 02

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your ground beef with the breadcrumbs, freshly chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until just combined - but don't overwork it, we want a tender meatloaf!

Step 03

Lovingly shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared dish. Slide it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).

Step 04

While your meatloaf is working its magic in the oven, let's make that mushroom gravy. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, add the mushrooms, and cook them until they're golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 05

Sprinkle flour over your beautiful mushrooms and stir constantly for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, followed by the cream. Keep stirring until your gravy reaches that perfect, velvety consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Season to taste.

Step 06

Let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking, then slice it into thick portions. Ladle the hot mushroom gravy over each serving and watch everyone's eyes light up!

Notes

  1. You can lighten up this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
  2. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables
  3. Save the leftovers for amazing sandwiches the next day

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Casserole dish or baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Meat thermometer

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains dairy (heavy cream, butter)
  • Contains gluten (breadcrumbs, flour)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 499
  • Total Fat: 36 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 19 g
  • Protein: 25 g