There’s something magical about the smell of a classic meatloaf with gravy wafting from the oven – it’s like a warm hug for your whole house. I remember coming home from school to that incredible aroma, my mom pulling out her trusty baking dish with that perfect golden-brown crust. It wasn’t just dinner, it was pure comfort on a plate.

This recipe has been my go-to for years because it never lets me down. The secret? Keeping it simple with quality ingredients and that rich, savory gravy that makes everyone ask for seconds. Unlike some dry meatloafs I’ve tried (we’ve all had those!), this version stays juicy thanks to my little trick with the milk-soaked breadcrumbs. And that sweet-tangy glaze on top? Just wait until you see how it caramelizes in the oven.

What I love most is how this classic meatloaf with gravy brings people together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or Sunday supper, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table a little faster. The best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf with Gravy

This isn’t just any meatloaf – it’s the kind of recipe you’ll scribble down and pass to your kids someday. Here’s why it’s become my family’s favorite:

• Comfort in every bite: That rich gravy coats each slice with savory goodness, making even the pickiest eaters clean their plates
• One-bowl wonder: Dump everything in, mix gently, and you’re done – no fancy techniques or equipment needed
• Leftovers that taste better: The flavors deepen overnight, making killer sandwiches the next day
• Crowd-pleasing flexibility: Swap the glaze for BBQ sauce or add mushrooms to the gravy – it’s forgiving and adaptable
• That nostalgic magic: One whiff takes you back to childhood dinners while still feeling special enough for company

Honestly? After your first bite of this juicy, gravy-drenched meatloaf, you’ll understand why it’s stayed on dinner rotation in my kitchen for fifteen years straight.

Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf with Gravy

Gathering your ingredients is half the battle won with this recipe – and trust me, every single one plays a special role in creating that perfect meatloaf texture and gravy richness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean) – The sweet spot for juicy but not greasy results
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs – Panko works great too for extra texture
• 1/2 cup whole milk – The secret to ultra-moist meatloaf (2% works in a pinch)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten – Your binding agent that holds it all together
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped – About 1/2 cup for sweet flavor without chunks
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Fresh is best, but 1/4 tsp garlic powder works too
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – That umami kick you can’t quite place but love
• 1 tsp kosher salt – Adjust to taste if using table salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Worth cracking fresh for this

For that irresistible glaze and gravy:

• 1/4 cup ketchup – The base of our sweet-tangy topper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar – For caramelized perfection
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard – Just enough zing to balance the sweet
• 1 cup beef broth – Low-sodium lets you control the salt
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water – Our no-fail gravy thickener

See? Nothing fancy – just honest ingredients that work together like magic. Now let’s get mixing!

How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Gravy

Now for the fun part – turning those simple ingredients into pure comfort food magic! I’ll walk you through each step so you get that perfect juicy meatloaf and luscious gravy every time.

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) – this gives your meatloaf that ideal even bake. While it heats, grab your biggest mixing bowl and let’s get messy! Here’s my foolproof method:

1. Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until they soften up – this creates moisture pockets throughout the meatloaf
2. Add the ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt and pepper
3. Now the important part: gently mix with your hands just until combined. Don’t overwork it like meatballs – we want tender, not tough!
4. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and shape into a loaf about 9×5 inches

Baking and Glazing

Here’s where the magic happens:

1. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes first – this helps set the shape
2. Mix ketchup, brown sugar and mustard for the glaze
3. After that initial bake, spread the glaze evenly over the top
4. Return to oven for another 30-40 minutes until it reaches 160°F internally
5. Pro tip: For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (but watch closely!)

Making the Gravy

While the meatloaf rests (crucial step – don’t skip!), let’s make that silky gravy:

1. Pour beef broth into a small saucepan over medium heat
2. Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth
3. Whisk the slurry into the broth and simmer until thickened – about 3-5 minutes
4. Taste and adjust seasoning – I often add a pinch of thyme or extra Worcestershire
5. Pour over sliced meatloaf and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

See? In about an hour, you’ll have a classic meatloaf with gravy that tastes like it took all day. The hardest part is waiting to dig in!

Tips for the Best Classic Meatloaf with Gravy

After making this recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good to “can I have thirds?” good:

• Handle with care: Mix ingredients just until combined – overworking makes tough meatloaf
• Trust the thermometer: A quick-read digital thermometer ensures perfect doneness without drying out. For more on food safety, check out the FDA’s temperature danger zone chart.
• Patience pays: Letting it rest 10 minutes before slicing keeps all those juices inside
• Lean but not mean: 85% lean beef gives great flavor without pooling grease
• Pan drippings bonus: Add a spoonful of the baking juices to your gravy for extra meaty depth

One last secret? I always make extra gravy – it’s amazing on mashed potatoes the next day!

Serving Suggestions

This classic meatloaf with gravy just begs for creamy mashed potatoes – they’re practically soulmates! I love pairing it with simple steamed green beans or buttered corn for color. If you’re feeling fancy, roasted carrots with a honey glaze make a beautiful side. Don’t forget extra gravy for dipping!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? Ha! In my house we fight over them – this meatloaf actually gets better after a day in the fridge. Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in foil then plastic (they’ll keep for 2 months).

When reheating, my trick is to place slices in a skillet with a splash of beef broth over medium-low heat – it keeps them juicy while warming through evenly. The microwave works in a pinch too, but cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. And always, always reheat that gravy separately!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the breakdown per serving (about one thick slice with gravy): approximately 320 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated), 25g protein, and 15g carbs. Keep in mind nutrition varies based on ingredients and brands – these values are estimates. The gravy adds about 25 calories per serving, but let’s be real – you’ll want extra!

FAQs About Classic Meatloaf with Gravy

Can I use something besides breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Crushed saltine crackers or quick oats work great in a pinch. My aunt swears by crushed cornflakes for extra crunch. Just keep it to 1/2 cup total for the right texture.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
You bet! Mix everything (except the glaze) up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the fridge. Let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes before baking. The flavors actually improve with this rest time!

Why does my meatloaf crack on top?
Don’t worry – that’s totally normal! The glaze helps hide any cracks, but you can prevent most by shaping your loaf evenly and not packing it too tightly.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Heck yes! Freeze individual slices wrapped in foil for quick meals. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with extra gravy – tastes just like fresh!

What if I don’t have beef broth for gravy?
No problemo! Use chicken broth or even water with an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. The drippings from your baking dish add tons of flavor too.

Share Your Experience

I’d love to hear how your classic meatloaf with gravy turns out! Did your family gobble it up like mine always does? Maybe you added your own special twist? Drop a comment below – your tips might help another home cook create their new favorite comfort food. Happy cooking!

Perfect Classic Meatloaf with Gravy in Just 1 Hour

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A hearty and comforting classic meatloaf with rich gravy, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. While the meatloaf rests, heat beef broth in a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into broth to thicken into gravy.
7. Slice meatloaf and serve with gravy.

Notes

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Use lean ground beef for a less greasy result.
• Double the gravy recipe if you prefer extra sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, beef recipe, gravy