Classic Meatloaf with Rich Onion Gravy

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Absolutely! Let’s turn your meatloaf with onion gravy into a full, mouthwatering culinary story. Here’s a big, detailed recipe experience for it:

🥩 Classic Meatloaf with Rich Onion Gravy

Introduction

Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, a timeless dish that has graced tables for generations. Combining the savory flavors of ground beef and pork with the aromatic touch of onions, garlic, and herbs, this meatloaf is moist, tender, and packed with flavor. Topped with a luscious, caramelized onion gravy, every bite feels like a warm hug. Perfect for family dinners, Sunday feasts, or cozy weeknight meals, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a classic favorite that both kids and adults adore.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 250 g (1/2 lb) ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Onion Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, shaping it evenly into a loaf.

Step 2: Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  2. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.

Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

  1. While the meatloaf bakes, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and caramelized (about 10–12 minutes).
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  5. Gradually pour in the beef stock while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, and cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Slice the rested meatloaf and pour the rich onion gravy generously over each serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Method Notes

  • Mixing: Use your hands for best texture—just until everything is combined.
  • Caramelization: Low and slow is key for the onions—don’t rush this step!
  • Juiciness Tip: Adding both beef and pork gives the meatloaf a perfect balance of flavor and moisture.

A Brief History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has roots stretching back to Europe in the 5th century, evolving over centuries. The modern American meatloaf rose to prominence during the Great Depression, offering an economical way to feed families using simple ground meats and pantry staples. Over time, countless regional variations emerged, from sweet ketchup-glazed loaves to savory herb-infused versions like this one. The addition of onion gravy is a traditional comfort twist that elevates the dish with savory depth.

Formation and Lovers

  • Formation: This meatloaf is a blend of tender ground meats and aromatic vegetables bound together with breadcrumbs and egg, baked to golden perfection.
  • Lovers: Fans of classic comfort food, hearty meals, and savory gravies will fall in love with this dish. It’s perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or anyone who appreciates a traditional home-cooked meal.

Conclusion

Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, this meatloaf with onion gravy is a crowd-pleaser that warms hearts and tummies alike. Its balance of flavors—savory, sweet, and aromatic—makes it a timeless favorite, worthy of repeating on your dinner rotation. Every bite is a reminder of why meatloaf remains a beloved classic.

If you want, I can also make a visual, step-by-step “Instagram-worthy” version of this recipe with photos of each stage—from mixing the meat to pouring the caramelized onion gravy. That would make it irresistible.

Do you want me to do that next?

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