why make this recipe
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the hunger. This dish brings back memories of family dinners and simple home cooking. It’s easy to make, filling, and can feed a crowd. Plus, it’s a great way to use ground beef and turn it into something special. The brown gravy adds a rich flavor that enhances the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
how to make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- To make the brown gravy, drain excess fat from the loaf pan. Combine the pan drippings with flour and broth in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
- Serve slices of meatloaf with gravy on top.
how to serve Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
Serve Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy hot from the oven. Place slices of the meatloaf on a plate and pour the brown gravy generously over the top. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
how to store Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
To store leftover meatloaf, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but make sure not to go too lean, as some fat is needed for flavor and moisture.
- For added flavor, you can mix in chopped bell peppers or grated carrots into the meatloaf mixture.
- If you prefer a sweeter gravy, you can add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the pan drippings as you make the gravy.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture; just combine until blended to keep it tender.
variation
You can make a turkey or veggie meatloaf for a lighter option. Simply replace the ground beef with ground turkey or a mixture of finely chopped vegetables, lentils, and grains. This keeps the spirit of meatloaf while adding different flavors and textures.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Q2: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) when cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Q3: Can meatloaf be reheated?
Absolutely! You can reheat meatloaf in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until hot. If you have gravy, add a little to keep it moist while reheating.
