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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf: Allow the ground beef to come to room temperature for even mixing and cooking.
- Chop Aromatics: Finely chop the onions and garlic, then set them aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape, ensuring the top is slightly domed to promote even cooking.
- 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.
- Sauté Mushrooms: While the meatloaf bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the sliced mushrooms until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Aromatics to Gravy: Add the chopped garlic and onions to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- 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.
- Season the Gravy: Adjust the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute for moist slices.
- 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
