Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Skill Level: Intermediate

• Intensity: Medium

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)

• ½ lb ground pork (or ground veal)

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko or Italian-style)

• ½ cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

• Non-stick cooking spray or oil, for pan

For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

• ½ teaspoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tablespoon heavy cream for a richer finish

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Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Loaf pan (9×5-inch or similar size)

• Skillet or sauté pan

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Aluminum foil (optional for resting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb.

3. Add ground beef, ground pork, diced onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, herbs, and parsley.

4. Use clean hands or a spatula to gently mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

1. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and shape it evenly.

3. Optional: Spread a thin layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top for a glaze.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil, before slicing.

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Step 3: Make the Caramelized Onion Gravy

While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the gravy:

1. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

2. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and caramelized. Sprinkle in the sugar after the first 5 minutes to help with browning.

3. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

4. Gradually whisk in beef broth, ensuring no lumps.

5. Add Worcestershire sauce, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5–10 minutes, until thickened.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in a splash of cream if desired for a luxurious texture.

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Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the rested meatloaf into generous portions.

2. Spoon the warm caramelized onion gravy over each slice.

3. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a classic meal.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this savory meatloaf with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or buttery Yukon golds

• Steamed broccoli, green beans, or glazed carrots

• A crisp side Caesar salad

• A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or iced tea for a comforting finish

This meal also makes excellent leftovers and freezes well!

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Chef’s Tips

• Double the Gravy: The caramelized onion gravy is so good, you might want extra! Double the recipe for leftovers or to serve over mashed potatoes.

• Moisture is Key: Don’t skip the milk-and-breadcrumb soak—this keeps the meatloaf tender.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s the most accurate way to ensure doneness without drying it out.

• Customize the Meat: Mix ground turkey or veal with beef or pork to alter the flavor and texture.

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Make Ahead & Storage

• Make-Ahead: Meatloaf mixture can be assembled and refrigerated (covered) up to 1 day ahead.

• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatloaf in slices or as a whole loaf. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven covered at 325°F.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 6 servings)

Final Thoughts

This Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy is comfort food at its best—easy to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to bring everyone back to the table for seconds. It’s classic, but with elevated touches like caramelized onions and a balanced herb profile that make it anything but ordinary.

Whether you serve it for Sunday dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or freeze it for future cravings, this meatloaf is bound to become a household staple.