Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

A comforting dish that never goes out of style, Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. This hearty recipe combines seasoned ground beef with a rich mushroom gravy that elevates the traditional meatloaf experience. It’s simple to prepare and delivers satisfying flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef and savory mushrooms creates a warm and inviting dish.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a sandwich for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this classic comfort food.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make it in advance and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your meatloaf, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Casserole dish or baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing mushrooms to create a flavorful gravy.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your meatloaf is cooked thoroughly for safe eating.
• Casserole dish or baking sheet: Provides an ideal surface for shaping and baking your meatloaf.

Ingredients

A classic meatloaf made with seasoned ground beef and topped with a rich mushroom gravy, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds fresh ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Gravy

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C). While you’re waiting, grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl:
1. Combine your ground beef with breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix everything together with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf form.
2. Place it in your prepared dish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Make the Mushroom Gravy

While your meatloaf is baking:
1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms; stir constantly for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in beef broth followed by cream; stir until gravy thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Season to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. Slice into thick portions and ladle hot mushroom gravy over each serving. Enjoy watching everyone’s eyes light up!

How to Serve Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Serving meatloaf with mushroom gravy can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish to your family and friends.

Classic Comfort Plate

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the rich mushroom gravy and absorb all those delicious flavors.
• Steamed Vegetables: Freshly steamed broccoli or green beans add a vibrant color and a healthy crunch to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for a perfect scoop for that extra gravy.

Family Style

• Large Serving Platter: Present the sliced meatloaf on a large platter, topped generously with mushroom gravy, inviting everyone to serve themselves.
• Salad Bar: Offer a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for guests to create their own side salad, enhancing the meal’s freshness.

Individual Portions

• Personalized Plates: Serve individual portions of meatloaf in small cast-iron skillets for a rustic touch.
• Mini Meatloafs: Create mini versions of the meatloaf baked in muffin tins, topped with mushroom gravy for easy serving.

How to Perfect Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Perfecting meatloaf with mushroom gravy can transform a simple recipe into an unforgettable meal. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Flavoring: Use quality seasonings like fresh herbs and spices to boost the flavor profile of your meat mixture.
• Moisture Matters: Ensure your ground beef is well-balanced in fat content to keep the meatloaf juicy and tender during baking.
• Rest Time: Allow your meatloaf to rest after baking; this helps it hold its shape when sliced and enhances flavor absorption.
• Gravy Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your mushroom gravy by adding more broth or cream as needed for desired silky smoothness.

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Complementing your meatloaf with the right side dishes will round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that pair well with beef dishes.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and vibrant color, enhancing the overall presentation.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These offer a natural sweetness that balances nicely with savory dishes like meatloaf.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach complements the flavors of the hearty meat dish beautifully.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs is an excellent base for soaking up leftover mushroom gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making meatloaf can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Incorrect Meat Ratio: Using too much fat in your ground beef can lead to a greasy meatloaf. Opt for lean ground beef for a better texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can make your meatloaf tough. Combine just until everything is mixed; this keeps it tender.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into your meatloaf right out of the oven can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning properly can result in bland meatloaf. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; taste your mixture before cooking if possible.
• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Relying on cooking time alone can lead to undercooked or overcooked meatloaf. A thermometer ensures it’s at the right internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Meatloaf will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy:

What type of beef is best for Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy?

Using lean ground beef is ideal as it keeps your meatloaf moist without excess fat.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still yield a delicious meatloaf.

How do I enhance the flavor of my mushroom gravy?

Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor of your mushroom gravy significantly.

Can I make Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What sides go well with Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad are perfect complements to this comforting dish.

Final Thoughts

This Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy recipe is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to impress!

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Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Indulge in the classic comfort of Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy, a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction for family dinners and gatherings. This hearty recipe features seasoned ground beef enveloped in a rich mushroom gravy that takes your meatloaf experience to the next level. Easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for novice cooks and seasoned kitchen veterans alike. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or on a sandwich for delicious leftovers, making it a versatile favorite that everyone will cherish.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds fresh ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons alternative to Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared dish. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. For the mushroom gravy, sauté sliced mushrooms in melted butter until golden brown. Stir in flour; cook for two minutes. Gradually add beef broth and whisk until thickened. Season to taste.
5. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing and serve warm with mushroom gravy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 85mg