Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Rich Brown Gravy (Long Version)
A classic comfort-food dinner that’s tender, juicy, and soaked in warm, savory brown gravy. This traditional meatloaf is simple, flavorful, and perfect for family meals or easy leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large 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
For the Brown Gravy
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions (Detailed & Long)
1. Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until the ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the meatloaf tender.
Shape the mixture into a firm loaf and place it into the prepared pan.
2. Bake Until Perfect
Bake the meatloaf for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is cooked through and the juices run clear.
For extra moisture, you can let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it stay juicy.
3. Make the Brown Gravy
While the meatloaf is baking, start the gravy.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking non-stop. The mixture will begin to thicken. Add the Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the gravy simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until smooth, glossy, and thick.
4. Serve
Slice the warm meatloaf into thick pieces and arrange them on a plate. Generously spoon the hot brown gravy over each slice.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or buttered green beans for the perfect old-fashioned dinner.