Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy

📝 Recipe Description

This classic meatloaf gets a flavorful upgrade with a rich caramelized onion gravy. Moist, tender, and packed with savory herbs, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and leftovers taste even better the next day!

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

🧾 Ingredients for Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) ground beef (80–85% lean)

• ½ lb (225 g) ground pork (or sausage meat)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• ½ cup milk

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Caramelized Onion Gravy

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 3 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tsp balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor

🔪 Instructions

1. Make the Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with foil.

2. In a bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 3–5 minutes.

3. Add beef, pork, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, herbs, spices, breadcrumb mixture, and parsley.

4. Mix gently until just combined — don’t overmix.

5. Form into a loaf shape and place in pan.

6. Optional glaze: Brush top with extra ketchup or BBQ sauce.

7. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

2. Caramelized Onion Gravy

1. While meatloaf bakes, melt butter with olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.

2. Add sliced onions + a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.

3. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute.

4. Slowly add broth while whisking; bring to simmer.

5. Add Worcestershire & optional balsamic. Simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes). Season to taste.

3. Serve

Slice meatloaf and ladle hot caramelized onion gravy over the top. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted veggies.

💡 Notes & Tips

• Don’t over-handle the meat or loaf will be tough.

• Breadcrumb swap: Use crushed crackers or oats.

• Make-ahead: Meatloaf mixture can be prepped up to 24 hrs in advance (refrigerate covered).

• Freeze: Slice cooled meatloaf, wrap individual slices, and freeze up to 3 months.

• Moisture tip: Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.

📊 Approximate Nutrition (per serving, without gravy)

✅ Benefits

• High in protein for muscle maintenance

• Comforting & satisfying, great for family-style meals

• Versatile — easy to customize or stretch with veggies

• Meal-prep friendly, makes great leftovers

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use only beef?
A: Yes — though pork adds moisture and flavor, all-beef works great too.

Q: What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
A: Crushed Ritz crackers, oats, or panko are all perfect substitutes.

Q: How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?
A: Make sure to include eggs and breadcrumbs (binders), and let it rest before slicing.

Q: Can I bake without a loaf pan?
A: Yes! Shape it free-form on a rimmed baking sheet for more caramelized edges.

Q: Is the gravy essential?
A: It’s delicious but optional—serve with brown gravy, mushroom sauce, or classic ketchup glaze if preferred.