If you’ve been craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than this Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy Recipe. Packed with savory flavors, tender textures, and topped with a rich mushroom gravy, this dish is the perfect centerpiece for a satisfying dinner — whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend indulgence.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to make a moist and flavorful meatloaf paired with a velvety mushroom gravy. We’ll walk you through ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and answer the most common questions people have about meatloaf and gravy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Flavor-packed: Garlic, herbs, onions, and mushrooms deliver deep umami notes.
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Moist and juicy: No more dry meatloaf — we’ll show you how to keep it tender.
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Comfort food perfection: This dish brings back memories of home-cooked meals.
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Easy to make ahead: Ideal for meal prep or leftovers that taste even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
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2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tsp fresh thyme (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula — do not overwork the meat, or it can become tough.
2. Shape and Bake
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Mushroom Gravy
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in beef broth and soy sauce. Let it simmer and thicken for 5–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve
Slice the meatloaf and drizzle it generously with the mushroom gravy. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
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Use a mix of meats: Combining beef with pork or veal adds complexity and moisture.
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Don’t skip the milk: It helps soften the breadcrumbs and adds moisture to the loaf.
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Rest before slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest ensures juices don’t escape.
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Use homemade broth if possible: It brings out a deeper flavor in the mushroom gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this meatloaf with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Garlic-roasted green beans
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Buttery corn on the cob
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A slice of crusty bread to mop up the gravy
15 Frequently Asked Questions About Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy
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Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version. Just add a bit more moisture (like grated zucchini or extra milk) since turkey tends to be leaner. -
How do I keep my meatloaf from drying out?
Don’t overmix the meat, and be sure to include moisture-rich ingredients like milk and eggs. -
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely. You can freeze it baked or unbaked. Wrap tightly in foil and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. -
What type of mushrooms are best for the gravy?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms work great. You can also use white button mushrooms. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and shape the meatloaf, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day. -
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F with a bit of broth or gravy to keep it moist. -
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice can be used as a substitute. -
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour, and ensure your broth and soy sauce are gluten-free. -
Is mushroom gravy vegetarian?
Not in this recipe, but you can make a vegetarian version with vegetable broth and skip the meatloaf. -
Why did my meatloaf fall apart?
It may need more binding agents (eggs, breadcrumbs), or it was sliced too soon before resting. -
Can I add cheese inside the meatloaf?
Yes! Try adding shredded mozzarella or cheddar in the center for a cheesy surprise. -
What’s the best way to slice meatloaf?
Use a sharp serrated knife and slice after resting to keep it intact. -
How long does cooked meatloaf last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. -
Can I make the mushroom gravy thicker?
Let it simmer longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water for extra thickness. -
Is it okay to use store-bought gravy instead?
While homemade tastes best, store-bought gravy works in a pinch. Enhance it with sautéed mushrooms and garlic.
Final Thoughts
This Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy Recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner — it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and home-style cooking. From the tender, juicy meatloaf to the rich, umami-packed mushroom gravy, each bite brings warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction.
Whether you’re making it for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something classic and cozy, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Meatloaf With Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 recommended
- 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms sliced (cremini or button)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth low sodium
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Make Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until just combined — avoid over-mixing.
Shape and Bake:
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest the Meatloaf:
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Make Mushroom Gravy:
- While the meatloaf is baking, heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add Flour and Broth:
- Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in beef broth and soy sauce. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve:
- Slice the meatloaf and spoon the warm mushroom gravy over each slice. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Enjoy with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
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