Easy Meatloaf with Gravy

Name: Easy Meatloaf with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

When it comes to comfort food, I can't resist a hearty meatloaf, especially one topped with a delicious gravy. This recipe for Easy Meatloaf with Gravy is my go-to when I crave something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how simple ingredients come together to create a juicy and flavorful dish. The gravy elevates the meatloaf, adding a rich, savory touch that perfectly complements the meat. It's a family favorite that always brings smiles to the dinner table!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:19:11.486Z

Making meatloaf is like revisiting your childhood comfort foods, and I've perfected this recipe over the years. I remember the first time I tried combining breadcrumbs with finely chopped onions and spices; the flavor was fantastic! The key is not to overmix the meat, allowing it to stay tender and moist as it cooks. I also learned that letting it rest for a few minutes before slicing makes a world of difference.

My favorite trick is using a mixture of ground beef and pork for an added depth of flavor. This creates a balanced meatloaf that isn’t too greasy. The gravy provides an extra layer of taste that makes the dish complete. I'm always amazed at how easily this dish comes together and how much my family loves it, even on the busiest of nights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly juicy and flavorful with every bite
Quick and easy recipe that uses pantry staples
Comforting gravy that enhances the meatloaf
Perfect for leftovers the next day

Choosing the Right Meats

The combination of ground beef and ground pork is what makes this meatloaf incredibly juicy and flavorful. Ground beef brings a robust taste, while the pork adds a subtle sweetness and fat content that ties everything together. If you're looking for a leaner option, you could substitute ground turkey for the pork, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. Balancing different meats not only enhances the flavor profile but also improves the moisture level of the final dish.

Make sure to choose meats with a good fat content; around 15% fat in your beef will ensure a tender and juicy meatloaf. Avoid very lean meats, as they can produce a dry end result. The rich combination of beef and pork certainly elevates this dish, and you'll find that even a small change in the type of meat can lead to different flavor nuances.

Perfecting the Gravy

The gravy is an essential finishing touch that can elevate your meatloaf from good to great. When making the gravy, ensure your butter is melted and bubbly, which indicates it’s hot enough to cook the flour without clumping. Stir constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color before gradually whisking in the beef broth. This process prevents lumps and gives you a smooth, velvety gravy that beautifully coats each slice of meatloaf.

If you desire a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the gravy mixture. This will deepen the color and provide an enhanced depth of flavor. Additionally, don’t skip the seasoning! Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed to complement the savory notes of the meatloaf.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This meatloaf keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep. After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider slicing the meatloaf before storing it. This allows for quicker reheating while maintaining moisture.

When reheating, a microwave works, but for the best texture, consider placing slices in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water and cover with a lid to create steam, which helps to reheat thoroughly without drying out. Enjoying your meatloaf on a sandwich or served over mashed potatoes is a special way to savor it again!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect easy meatloaf.

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Gravy

1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have these ingredients ready, you're all set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your meatloaf and gravy.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a lined loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Bake

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Make the Gravy

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, then season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve slices topped with the gravy.

Enjoy your homemade easy meatloaf with gravy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture.

Tips for Success

Ensure you don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated; this keeps the texture tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, which is less enjoyable. When shaping, aim for an even loaf to ensure uniform cooking, avoiding cracks and uneven texture.

Using a lined loaf pan not only helps in easy removal but also maintains the shape as it bakes. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can shape the meatloaf by hand and place it on a lined baking sheet, but be sure to monitor the cooking time as this may vary slightly.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to customize your meatloaf by incorporating different vegetables like grated carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. These can also introduce moisture, making your loaf even more succulent. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.

For low-carb or gluten-free options, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. These alternatives will still provide structure while adhering to dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to enjoy this comfort food without compromise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only ground beef for the meatloaf?

Yes, using just ground beef works perfectly fine, but the addition of pork adds extra flavor and moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.