Easy Meatloaf with Gravy

Name: Easy Meatloaf with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Easy Meatloaf with Gravy because it's a family favorite that never fails to satisfy. It's hearty, flavorful, and comes together rather quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. I enjoy how simple ingredients create such a comforting dish, and the gravy adds an extra layer of richness that completes the meal. With every bite, I’m reminded of warm family gatherings and cozy evenings at home, and I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:16:20.386Z

Making Easy Meatloaf with Gravy is a tradition in my family that brings back wonderful memories. The method I use is straightforward, ensuring that the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful every time. I've learned that using a mix of ground beef and pork gives a wonderful richness, and the addition of breadcrumbs helps to bind it all together while keeping it tender.

One tip I've found invaluable is to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This really allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a perfectly succulent slice every time. And don’t skip the gravy – it turns a good dish into a great one!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Homemade gravy that elevates the dish
Moist and tender meatloaf full of flavor
Family-friendly meal that's easy to make

      

Perfecting the Meatloaf Texture

Achieving the right texture in your meatloaf is essential for a satisfying bite. The combination of ground beef and ground pork not only adds depth of flavor but also balances fat content, ensuring your meatloaf remains moist. I recommend using an 80/20 ground beef ratio for optimal juiciness. Make sure not to overmix the meat as this can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender result.

Using fresh breadcrumbs is another great way to enhance the moisture in your meatloaf. If you only have stale bread on hand, you can revive it by soaking it in milk and then squeezing out the excess before adding it to the mixture. This small step can make your meatloaf even more tender and flavorful. Avoid pre-packaged breadcrumbs if you can; homemade versions will help maintain the integrity of your dish.

Secrets to Rich and Flavorful Gravy

The homemade gravy for this meatloaf is what truly elevates your dish. To ensure a rich flavor, it’s key to simmer the beef broth long enough to reduce and concentrate its taste; around 10-15 minutes should do the trick. Don’t forget to constantly whisk while adding the liquid to prevent lumps. If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it cook longer until it reaches your desired consistency; just be mindful not to let it become too gel-like.

If you want to enhance the complexity of your gravy, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra umami flavor. Some fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can also complement the gravy beautifully. These additions offer subtle tweaks that can transform a simple gravy into a gourmet accompaniment. Serve it warm over freshly sliced meatloaf for a cozy, delicious experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This meatloaf recipe is perfect for batch cooking, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can assemble the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to cook, simply shape and bake as directed. You can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months.

Leftover meatloaf makes for excellent sandwiches or can be reheated with the gravy for a cozy meal during the week. To reheat, simply slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered. If you're short on time, reheating in the microwave is effective — just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out. These tips ensure you won’t waste any of this comforting dish!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious meatloaf:

Meatloaf Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Gravy Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect meatloaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Smooth the top for even cooking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Prepare the Gravy

While the meatloaf bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, and continue whisking until the gravy thickens.

Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Once the meatloaf is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with warm gravy.

Enjoy your hearty meatloaf dinner with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dishes!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meatloaf mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this meatloaf, ground turkey can be a fantastic substitute for either the beef or pork. However, turkey tends to be drier, so incorporating grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots can add moisture and nutrition. Another great option is to use quinoa or oatmeal in place of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, creating a grain-free meatloaf packed with fiber.

For dairy-free versions, swap the milk with almond or oat milk. Ensure you use a similar ratio to maintain moisture but skip the regular milk options. Alternatively, using beef or vegetable broth can also work well in this recipe, enhancing the flavor while keeping the dish moist. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite spices or add-ins; even a splash of hot sauce could give the meatloaf an exciting kick!

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf is a standout when paired with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. You can elevate your meal by serving it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside buttered egg noodles tossed in garlic and parsley; the noodles soak up the meatloaf gravy beautifully.

For special occasions, feel free to make an impressive meatloaf sandwich. Simply stack slices of the meatloaf with your favorite condiments on a toasted bun. Add a bit of cheese and some pickles for a delightful contrast. This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed in various forms, ensuring that your family will never tire of it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only ground beef for the meatloaf?

Yes, you can use only ground beef, but combining it with ground pork adds moisture and depth of flavor.

→ How do I store leftover meatloaf?

Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or freezer bags.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.