This classic meatloaf is juicy and packed with flavor, topped with a creamy mushroom gravy that makes every bite irresistible. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner!
I love serving this with mashed potatoes because they soak up all that delicious gravy. Just saying, leftovers make a great sandwich, too—I might even hide them for myself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, but they may need a bit more seasoning since they are leaner.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are great for binding the meatloaf. If gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. I’ve also used panko for added texture!
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are common, but cremini or shiitake add more depth of flavor to the gravy. If you want a lighter option, you can skip the mushrooms entirely or use canned mushrooms.
Milk: Any milk will do. I love using whole milk for creaminess, but almond milk or soy milk can be a good substitute if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Mix Meatloaf Without Making It Tough?
Mixing the meatloaf requires a gentle touch to keep it tender. Here’s how:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until mixed. Don’t overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape without pressing too hard—this helps to maintain a nice texture.
- If you want it extra moist, consider adding a tablespoon of barbecue sauce or extra Worcestershire sauce into the mixture.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with a tender and flavorful meatloaf every time! Enjoy it with that creamy mushroom gravy for the best results!
Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 1 hour to bake. You’ll want to set aside an extra 5-10 minutes for the meatloaf to rest before slicing. That’s about 1 hour and 25 minutes total for a delicious homestyle dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking the meatloaf!
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Remember, we want to keep it tender, so don’t overmix!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased baking dish or loaf pan. Make sure it’s evenly shaped for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer comes in handy here!
5. Prepare the Mushroom Gravy:
While the meatloaf bakes, let’s work on that yummy mushroom gravy! Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Sauté the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them until they soften and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be fantastic!
7. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a nice roux. This will help thicken our gravy.
8. Whisk in the Broth:
Slowly whisk in the beef broth and add Worcestershire sauce. Keep stirring to blend it smoothly.
9. Simmer the Gravy:
Let the gravy simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens up, which will take about 5 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Let the Meatloaf Rest:
Once the meatloaf is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it stay juicy when you slice it!
11. Serve With Gravy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it topped with that delicious mushroom gravy. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
12. Enjoy the Meal:
You can enjoy this meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms for a complete and satisfying meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind it may require a bit more seasoning, as it can be milder in flavor than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a filler. Just ensure that the substitute can help hold the meatloaf together.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave slices or warm them in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Can I Make the Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! The mushroom gravy can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it needs thinning after refrigeration.