There’s a comforting warmth that envelops me when I pull a freshly baked meatloaf from the oven, the rich aroma of herbs and garlic filling the kitchen. This homemade meatloaf with gravy might just become your new go-to dish for those cozy Sunday dinners—or any day, really! I discovered this versatile recipe while looking for a way to blend my love for hearty comfort food with a lighter twist. By combining ground beef and turkey, I crafted a dish that satisfies cravings without weighing you down.
Picture this: a moist and flavorful meatloaf, generously topped with a silky, rich gravy that coats each slice perfectly. Whether you’re bustling around making dinner for your family or preparing for a welcoming gathering, this meal promises to impress. It’s simplicity meets satisfaction, a recipe that lets you savor every bite without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to transform your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy special?
Comforting Tradition: This meatloaf brings nostalgia with every bite, invoking memories of family gatherings and warm kitchens.
Lighter Yet Hearty: Combining ground turkey with beef offers a satisfying meal that’s gentler on the waistline.
Flavorful Gravy: Topped with rich gravy, it’s an indulgent addition that elevates the entire dish.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish everyone loves, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying picky eaters. Transform your dining experience with this delightful recipe and enjoy the cozy warmth it brings to your table!
Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Adds flavor and texture to the meatloaf; can be substituted with any ground meat of choice.
• Ground Turkey Breast (1 lb) – Lightens up the dish while maintaining heartiness; substitute with additional ground beef or pork for enhanced flavor.
• Breadcrumbs (2/3 cup) – Provides structure and texture; Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a better crunch.
• Onion (1 medium, finely diced) – Adds aromatic flavor; can be sautéed in advance for enhanced sweetness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor; optional if you prefer a milder taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds depth to the meatloaf; can substitute with soy sauce if desired.
• Eggs (2 large, room temperature) – Binds the mixture together; ensure they are not cold to prevent a soggy loaf.
• Olive Oil (1.5 tsp) – Used for sautéing onion and garlic; can be replaced with any neutral oil.
• Thyme (3/4 tsp dried) – Adds herbal notes; fresh thyme can also be used for a fresher flavor.
• Salt (3/4 tsp) – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a touch of spice; alter based on your heat preference.
For the Gravy
• Beef Broth (2 cups) – Serves as the base for the gravy, providing rich flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
• Flour (1/4 cup; all-purpose) – Thickens the gravy; for a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Light Butter (4 tbsp) – Creates a roux for the gravy, adding richness; can use other fats or oils if preferred.
This Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy is designed to provide you with both comfort and flavor, ensuring that everyone at your table leaves satisfied!
How to Make Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy
- Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will bake evenly.
- Prepare aromatics: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. These will create a flavorful base for your meatloaf.
- Sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 3-5 minutes, then add minced garlic for another minute. Allow to cool slightly.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the room temperature eggs. Combine them with ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and the cooled onion-garlic mixture.
- Combine gently: Mix the ingredients gently until fully incorporated. Take care not to overmix, as this could lead to a dense meatloaf.
- Shape it up: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 2 inches thick.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make the gravy: While the meatloaf bakes, start the gravy. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually add beef broth and whisk until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Rest and serve: Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the rich gravy on top.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Additionally, the gravy can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days for maximum flavor. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and place the meatloaf in, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll have a comforting, satisfying dinner on the table with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of homemade comfort food without the stress!
What to Serve with Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy?
There’s something special about pairing the cozy richness of this dish with the right sides that enhance its warmth and flavor.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Soft and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up the savory gravy, creating a blissful contrast to the meatloaf’s texture.Garlic Roasted Vegetables:
A medley of seasonal veggies brings a burst of color and earthy flavors that balance the richness of the meatloaf. Roasting them caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their natural sweetness.Simple Tossed Salad:
A fresh garden salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch, cutting through the meatloaf’s richness and providing a delightful contrast in every bite.Homemade Mac and Cheese:
Creamy and cheesy, this comforting side adds a playful and nostalgic element to your meal, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate.Buttermilk Biscuits:
Soft and flaky biscuits are perfect for sopping up that rich gravy. Their buttery flavor complements the meatloaf beautifully, adding a comforting touch.Sweet Corn on the Cob:
Freshly grilled or boiled corn offers a touch of sweetness and fun. The juicy kernels enhance the meal’s homey comfort and make it feel like a summer picnic.Fruit Crumble Dessert:
End the meal on a sweet note with a warm fruit crumble. Its fruity sweetness and crispy topping provide a delightful contrast to the savory main course, making for a satisfying finish.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create your perfect plateful of comfort!
Expert Tips for Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy
• Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture; gently combine ingredients to keep your meatloaf tender.
• Cool Onion First: Sautéing onions and garlic helps prevent excess moisture; allowing them to cool slightly helps the meatloaf bind better.
• Use a Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer will help ensure your meatloaf reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F for safety and doneness.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, which keeps it moist and flavorful.
• Adjust Gravy Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little extra broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. Enjoy your homemade meatloaf with gravy just the way you like it!
Storage Tips for Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy
Fridge: Store leftover homemade meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled to maintain moisture and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Serve with extra gravy for added flavor!
Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste preferences!
- Ground Pork: Substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork for an extra rich flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Turkey-only Twist: Use ground turkey exclusively for a lighter, leaner meatloaf that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s perfect for those looking for a healthier option!
- Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh oregano or rosemary instead of thyme for a fragrant twist that adds a delightful depth to the dish. These herbs will invigorate the meatloaf’s flavor profile.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture for added nutrition and a dash of color. This small addition can surprise your palate!
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for an exciting heat level that livens up the classic flavors. Your guests will love the unexpected surprise!
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté chopped mushrooms and incorporate them into the gravy for a rich umami flavor that creates a gourmet experience right at home. It pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the meat mixture for a melty aspect that adds creaminess and indulgence to every slice.
- BBQ Glaze: For a flavorful twist, brush a smoky BBQ sauce over the meatloaf before baking. This creates an irresistible caramelized crust on top that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat should I use?
Absolutely! The combination of ground beef and ground turkey creates a balanced flavor and texture. If you prefer, you can use 100% ground beef, turkey, or even blend in some ground pork for richer taste. Just make sure the total weight remains about 2 lbs.
How should I store leftover meatloaf?
For sure! Store any leftover homemade meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Always let it cool down completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your meatloaf, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my meatloaf is too dry?
Very good question! If your meatloaf turns out dry, it might be due to overbaking or not enough moisture initially. For future batches, consider adding some sautéed veggies, like mushrooms or celery, to the mixture, or a splash of beef broth. Always check with a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking—165°F is your magic number!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, this homemade meatloaf can easily be adjusted. For gluten-free needs, swap out breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or even oats. Additionally, ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Always double-check labels when it comes to allergies, especially for pets and common allergens like eggs or dairy.
Lighter Homemade Meatloaf with Gravy for Comfort Eating
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the diced onion for about 3-5 minutes, then add minced garlic for another minute.
- In a large bowl, beat the room temperature eggs and combine them with ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and onion-garlic mixture.
- Gently mix the ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 2 inches thick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually add beef broth and whisk until thickened.
- Let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serve warm with gravy.