Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

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Absolutely! Here’s a fully fleshed-out, detailed recipe for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy, including an engaging introduction, history, methods, formation tips, and a warm conclusion for lovers of home-cooked meals. I’ve expanded it to give the full “big recipe” experience.

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

Introduction

There’s something timeless about a classic meatloaf that warms the heart and fills the home with comfort. This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is a recipe that harks back to cozy family dinners, where the smell of baking meat and rich gravy greets you at the door. Perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy, this meatloaf is topped with a luscious brown gravy that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a dish that unites generations and brings a sense of nostalgia and love to the table.

History & Formation

Meatloaf has roots stretching back to medieval Europe, where ground meats were mixed with bread and seasonings to make simple, hearty meals. By the 19th and 20th centuries, it became a staple in American households, celebrated for being affordable, filling, and versatile. The brown gravy that often accompanies it evolved as a natural pairing—turning the savory meatloaf into a comforting, indulgent meal. Over time, families added their own twists with spices, vegetables, or sauces, giving rise to countless variations, yet the classic version remains timeless.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Brown Gravy:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method

Preparing the Meatloaf:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with butter or oil.
  2. Mix the meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl: ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. Use your hands for best results, mixing just until combined (avoid overmixing to keep it tender).
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  4. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Making the Brown Gravy:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until it turns a light golden color.
  3. Slowly add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving:

  • Slice the meatloaf into thick portions.
  • Spoon warm brown gravy generously over each slice.
  • Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad for a complete, comforting meal.

Tips & Lovers’ Touches

  • Juiciness tip: Mix in a tablespoon of ketchup or tomato paste to keep the meatloaf moist.
  • Flavor lovers: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
  • Crust lovers: Brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup or BBQ sauce 15 minutes before the end of baking for a flavorful glaze.
  • Leftover lovers: Use leftover meatloaf slices in sandwiches or diced into pasta for a second day of comfort food bliss.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is more than a meal—it’s a hug on a plate. It combines simple ingredients with thoughtful preparation to create something hearty, flavorful, and full of love. Every bite carries warmth, nostalgia, and the kind of satisfaction that only home cooking can provide. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a quiet night in, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds and remembering the comforting flavors of home.

If you want, I can also create a visually appealing, step-by-step illustrated version of this recipe, perfect for sharing with “Granny’s Divine Recipes” followers, complete with plating tips and gravy drizzling techniques.

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