This meatloaf is cozy and comforting, topped with rich mushroom gravy that makes every bite delicious. You’ll find it hard to resist! 🍄
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish. Just mix, shape, and bake! Pair it with mashed potatoes for a classic meal that feels like a warm hug.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for something leaner, you can go with ground turkey or chicken, but they might need a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor.
Ground Pork: This is optional, but it adds juiciness to the meatloaf. If you’re avoiding pork, you could use additional ground beef or turkey. Another great option is adding finely chopped mushrooms to maintain moisture without adding meat.
Breadcrumbs: I usually use regular breadcrumbs. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Panko can also give a nice texture but may require a little more liquid.
Mushrooms: I like using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini could add moisture and flavor in their place.
How Do You Ensure the Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist can be a challenge, but there are a few simple tips! First, soak those breadcrumbs in milk for added moisture, which helps keep everything tender. Mixing your ingredients gently prevents tough meatloaf.
- Don’t overmix; just combine until everything is incorporated.
- Consider a meat thermometer: pulling it out at 160°F (71°C) ensures it’s done without drying out.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps juices redistribute, making the slices juicier.
Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping if desired)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. You’ll also need an extra 5-7 minutes for making the mushroom gravy while the meatloaf is cooking. Overall, it’s about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get a lovely brown exterior on the meatloaf while keeping it juicy on the inside. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a couple of minutes until they absorb the liquid. Then, add the ground beef, ground pork (if you’re using it), chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until it’s all combined. Just be careful not to overmix it; you want a tender meatloaf!
3. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Pat it down evenly to make it nice and smooth. If you like, you can spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a tasty glaze. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
4. Make the Mushroom Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, it’s time to make the mushroom gravy! In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 6-8 minutes until they’re soft and browned.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This helps cook the flour and eliminate any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, then let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until the gravy has thickened to a smooth consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain all those delicious juices! Serve by spooning the mushroom gravy generously over each slice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty meatloaf with mashed potatoes or your favorite side!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner meatloaf. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as turkey can be milder than beef.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in advance. Cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in the Meatloaf?
Definitely! You can add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time a bit if you’re adding a lot of bulk.