Meatloaf with Onion Gravy: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Meatloaf with Onion Gravy is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any dinner table. Growing up, I remember the delightful aroma wafting through the house as my mother prepared this dish, making it a staple in our family meals. This hearty recipe not only showcases the rich flavors of ground meat but also highlights the savory goodness of caramelized onions, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

What I love most about Meatloaf with Onion Gravy is its versatility and convenience. It’s a dish that can be easily customized to suit your palate, whether you prefer a hint of spice or a touch of sweetness. The tender meatloaf pairs beautifully with the luscious onion gravy, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s no wonder that this dish has stood the test of time, as it continues to be a favorite for families looking for a satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
• For the Onion Gravy:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Use your hands to mix everything together gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf. You can either form it by hand or use a loaf pan for a more uniform shape. If you’re using a loaf pan, make sure to lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
4. Transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. If you’re using a loaf pan, just place it directly in the oven.
5. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious glaze as it bakes.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the center to ensure it’s no longer pink.

Making the Onion Gravy

1. While the meatloaf is baking, let’s prepare the onion gravy. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onion to the pan. Sauté the onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the flavor of the gravy.
3. Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the simmering gravy while stirring continuously. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to enhance the flavor further, you can add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of garlic powder.

Assembling and Serving

1. Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and flavorful.
2. After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch thick slices, but you can adjust this based on your preference.
3. Serve the meatloaf slices on a plate and generously ladle the onion gravy over the top. This adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the meatloaf perfectly.
4. For a complete meal, I love to serve this dish with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta and a

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Meatloaf with Onion Gravy, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to bring comfort food to their dinner table. The combination of savory meatloaf paired with rich, flavorful onion gravy creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, a side of roasted vegetables, or even on a bed of fluffy rice, this meatloaf is sure to impress your family and friends. For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, feel free to make this recipe your own! You can add different herbs and spices to the meat mixture, swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or even incorporate some finely chopped vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative with your variations. I genuinely hope you give this Meatloaf with Onion Gravy a try. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia, perfect for any occasion. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking!

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