This classic meatloaf, made with seasoned ground beef and topped with a rich, silky mushroom gravy, is the kind of dish that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether you’re serving family or gathered with friends, a hearty slice of meatloaf smothered in creamy mushroom gravy is a timeless, comforting dinner that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This meatloaf checks all the boxes: flavorful, moist, and satisfying. Seasoned with herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, it’s a recipe that rewards your effort with deep, savory flavor. The mushroom gravy takes it up a notch—its velvety richness complements every bite of beef. It’s filling, nostalgic, and perfect for sharing around the dinner table.
Ingredients
tip: you can find full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below
→ For 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 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
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper. Gently mix using your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so be gentle.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared dish. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the mushroom gravy. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in beef broth followed by heavy cream. Continue stirring until the gravy becomes velvety and smooth, another 5–7 minutes. Season to taste.
Let the meatloaf rest briefly after removing it from the oven, then slice. Spoon generous amounts of mushroom gravy over each serving for a cozy, flavorful dinner.
Variations
• Swap ground pork or turkey for part of the beef for a lighter version.
• Add chopped bell peppers or grated carrots into the mix for extra veggie goodness.
• Stir fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the gravy for a pop of brightness.
• Turn up the garlic or boost the Worcestershire for richer depth, or add a dash of hot sauce for subtle heat.
Heating and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with some added broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze sliced portions—freeze the meatloaf separately and the gravy in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before gently reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the meatloaf moist?
Gently mixing and including ketchup and Worcestershire helps. Avoid packing the mixture too tightly; a loose loaf stays tender.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. Bake the meatloaf, keep it warm, and prepare the gravy just before serving. It actually tastes better after resting.
What should I serve with it?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a crisp side salad all pair beautifully with this meatloaf.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
Let it simmer a few minutes longer, or add a touch more flour mixed with butter to thicken it.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for flour in the gravy.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
You can omit mushrooms and simply make a cream-based gravy or brown gravy using caramelized onions.
Do I need a meat thermometer?
It’s helpful! The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked, safe meatloaf.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Use a larger pan or shape two loaves. Adjust baking time, starting around 50 minutes and checking frequently.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
The recipe already uses dried thyme and oregano. Dried rosemary or parsley would also work in the gravy.
Why rest the meatloaf before slicing?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist instead of dry.
Conclusion
This classic meatloaf with mushroom gravy is cozy, flavorful, and comforting—perfect when you want to feed the people you love with a homey, delicious meal. A little effort, a rich gravy, and plenty of meatloaf magic on the plate—what’s not to love?
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Classic Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy: Comfort on a Plate
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
This classic meatloaf recipe combines seasoned ground beef with herbs and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection and topped with a rich mushroom gravy. A hearty, comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
2 lbs fresh ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare baking dish.
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Combine meatloaf ingredients gently. Shape into a loaf and bake 50–60 minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
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For the gravy, sauté mushrooms in butter until golden. Stir in flour for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in broth and cream until smooth and thickened. Season to taste.
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Slice rested meatloaf and serve with mushroom gravy poured over the top.
Notes
• Don’t overmix meat—gently combine for a tender texture.
• Allow meatloaf to rest before slicing so it retains juices.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch for flour.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking; stovetop gravy
- Cuisine: American
