Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

If you have been searching for the ultimate comfort food to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings, look no further than this incredible Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe. It combines juicy, perfectly seasoned ground beef meatloaf nestled beneath a luscious, earthy mushroom gravy that’s silky smooth and rich with flavor. Every bite offers a nostalgic hug, bringing family and friends together around the dinner table. This dish truly elevates classic meatloaf to a whole new level, making it a beloved staple you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity—ingredients that are straightforward and easy to find, yet each plays an essential role. From the savory ground beef to the fresh cremini mushrooms and the fragrant garlic, these components work harmoniously to create layers of deep flavor, moist texture, and appetizing color.

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend): The perfect ratio for juicy, flavorful meatloaf that holds together well.
• 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, finely chopped: Adds earthy depth to the meatloaf mixture itself.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Delivers subtle sweetness and moisture.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf, keeping it tender and structured.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami richness and complex flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced: The star of the mushroom gravy, providing texture and savoriness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the gravy with a fragrant backdrop.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
• 2 cups beef broth: Forms the flavorful base for the rich mushroom gravy.

How to Make Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef and Aromatics

Begin by letting your ground beef come to room temperature—this helps it cook more evenly and stay tender. While that’s happening, finely chop the onions and garlic, setting them aside for use in both the meatloaf and the gravy. This prep sets a solid foundation for building complex, layered flavors.

Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, the chopped onions and garlic, plus salt and pepper. Be careful to mix only until just combined to avoid a tough texture. This careful mixing ensures every bite remains juicy and tender.

Step 3: Test the Seasoning

Cooking a small patty of your meat mixture in a skillet lets you taste and adjust seasoning before baking the whole loaf. This step is a game-changer—it guarantees that the seasoning is perfectly balanced and you won’t find yourself wishing for more flavor later.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf with a slightly domed top to promote even cooking. Place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C), and bake until the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C), about an hour. This slow, steady baking keeps the meatloaf succulent and helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Mushroom Gravy

While the meatloaf bakes, heat a skillet and sauté the sliced mushrooms until golden brown—this takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and onions and cook another couple of minutes to release their aromatics. Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer until it thickens into a velvety gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and get ready to drizzle it over your freshly baked meatloaf.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing—this resting period lets the juices redistribute for moist slices. Serve each slice smothered in your warm mushroom gravy, and watch how everyone lights up with delight at the first bite.

How to Serve Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled over the plated meatloaf not only add a pop of vibrant color but also a fresh, fragrant contrast to the rich mushroom gravy. For a touch of brightness, a light drizzle of whole grain mustard or a dollop of horseradish cream complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe naturally pairs with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, which soak up every drop of that luscious mushroom sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables, green beans almondine, or a crisp garden salad provide textural contrast and balance out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your meal feel even more special, try plating individual meatloaf slices on warm plates topped with a generous ladle of mushroom gravy and garnish thoughtfully. You can serve the gravy in a small pitcher so guests can pour to their liking. Another fun idea is to turn leftovers into sliders, layering the meatloaf on toasted buns with a drizzle of the mushroom gravy for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf with mushroom gravy keeps wonderfully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it an even tastier meal the next day. Make sure to separate the gravy if storing for longer to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cooked meatloaf and the mushroom gravy for up to 3 months. Slice the meatloaf before freezing for easier thawing and reheating. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly.

Reheating

Reheat your meatloaf gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. The mushroom gravy reheats well in a saucepan on low heat, stirred occasionally until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and be sure to check the temperature throughout.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for the gravy?

Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms offer a great balance of flavor and texture, you can substitute with button, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preference.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten additives.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?

Yes, preparing the meat mixture a day ahead is a fantastic way to save time. Keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator and shape it just before baking. This resting time will also help the flavors meld more deeply.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat while still juicy and tender.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce mixed with a dash of vinegar and a bit of sugar for a similar umami kick. Just adjust quantities to taste to avoid overpowering the meatloaf.

Final Thoughts

Making this Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe is like gifting yourself a timeless, hearty meal that feels like a warm embrace after any long day. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve for Sunday dinner or holidays. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of those treasured dishes you turn to when you want a crowd-pleasing, deeply satisfying home-cooked meal. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give it a try—you won’t regret it!

Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A classic Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy recipe that combines seasoned ground beef baked to perfection with a rich, savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this dish balances tender meatloaf with the earthy flavors of cremini mushrooms and a flavorful beef broth gravy.

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Ingredients

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For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Gravy

• 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf: Allow the ground beef to come to room temperature for even mixing and cooking.
2. Chop Aromatics: Finely chop the onions and garlic, then set them aside.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatloaf.
4. Test Seasoning: Fry a small patty of the meat mixture in a skillet and taste it. Adjust seasonings in the mixture if necessary for optimal flavor.
5. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape, ensuring the top is slightly domed to promote even cooking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), approximately 1 hour.
7. Sauté Mushrooms: While the meatloaf bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the sliced mushrooms until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Add Aromatics to Gravy: Add the chopped garlic and onions to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
9. Make the Gravy: Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and allow the gravy to cook and thicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Season the Gravy: Adjust the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute for moist slices.
12. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and spoon the mushroom gravy generously over each serving.

Notes

• Allowing the ground beef to come to room temperature ensures even cooking and better texture.
• Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Testing seasoning by frying a small patty prevents bland results.
• Resting the meatloaf after baking helps retain juices and improves slicing.
• Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor; dried mushrooms will alter texture and taste.
• The mushroom gravy can be thickened further with a cornstarch slurry if desired.
• Optional additions can include herbs like thyme or parsley for added depth in gravy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American