🍽️ Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
A timeless comfort classic that brings families together
🧡 Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of old-fashioned meatloaf smothered in rich brown gravy. It’s warm, hearty, and reminds many of Sunday family dinners, cozy kitchens, and recipes passed down through generations.
This classic meatloaf is tender and juicy on the inside, lightly caramelized on the outside, and topped with a savory homemade brown gravy that takes it to the next level. Simple ingredients, big flavor — just the way comfort food should be.
📜 A Little History
Meatloaf has been a staple in American kitchens since the late 19th century. It became especially popular during the Great Depression because it stretched affordable ground meat with breadcrumbs and eggs. Over time, families added their own touches — ketchup glazes, gravies, herbs, and spices — creating the beloved comfort dish we know today.
The brown gravy version became popular as a hearty, “Sunday dinner” style variation, often served with mashed potatoes and green beans.
🛒 Ingredients
🥩 For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
🍲 For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 Preparation Method (Step-by-Step)
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix — this keeps the meatloaf tender.
🔹 Step 2: Shape & Form
- Transfer mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a loaf pan.
- Shape into a firm loaf about 9×5 inches.
- Slightly smooth the top for even cooking.
🔹 Step 3: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting keeps the juices inside.
🔹 Step 4: Make the Brown Gravy
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden (this forms a roux).
- Slowly whisk in beef broth to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Pour generously over sliced meatloaf.
🔥 Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little extra breadcrumbs.
- If too dry, add a splash of milk.
- For extra richness, mix half ground beef and half ground pork.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Buttered corn
- Fresh dinner rolls
The brown gravy tastes amazing over both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes!
❤️ Why People Love This Recipe
✔ Classic comfort flavor
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients
✔ Family-approved
✔ Perfect leftovers for sandwiches
✔ Freezer friendly
Leftover meatloaf sandwiches the next day? Absolute heaven.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freeze slices individually up to 3 months
- Reheat in oven at 325°F or microwave until warmed through
🏁 Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is more than just a meal — it’s a memory on a plate. It’s hearty, simple, and full of comforting flavor that brings everyone back to the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a Sunday dinner, this recipe never disappoints.
If you love classic comfort food like this, this one deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Comment “Yummy” if you’d make this tonight! 😋🍽️