Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. Add the beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard to the meat mixture. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to thoroughly combine everything. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

3. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared dish and shape it into a loaf. Smooth out the top to ensure even cooking.

4. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). To check the temperature, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the meatloaf.

5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the caramelized onion gravy. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.

6. Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat the onions evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

7. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens and reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf with the caramelized onion gravy on top.

Expert Tips for Success

– Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for the best flavor and texture. The pork adds moisture and richness to the meatloaf.

– Don’t skip the step of soaking the breadcrumbs in milk. This helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.

– Finely chop the onion and garlic to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the meatloaf.

– Be gentle when mixing the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf.

– Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.

Variations and Substitutions

– If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.

– Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your meatloaf. Add some dried rosemary or a dash of cayenne pepper for a twist.

– Feel free to add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

– For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute them with crushed gluten-free crackers.

Serving Suggestions

This savory meatloaf with caramelized onion gravy pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

– Mashed potatoes: Serve a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes alongside the meatloaf. The gravy will beautifully complement the potatoes.

– Roasted vegetables: Roast some seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, for a colorful and nutritious side.

– Steamed green beans: Lightly steam some fresh green beans and toss them with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt for a simple and vibrant side dish.

– Dinner rolls: Warm up some dinner rolls and serve them on the side to mop up any extra gravy.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions in the recipe.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover meatloaf for future meals. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use a different type of gravy?

A: While the caramelized onion gravy adds a delicious sweet and savory element to the meatloaf, you can certainly use a different type of gravy if you prefer. Mushroom gravy or a classic brown gravy would be excellent choices.

Final Thoughts

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this savory meatloaf with caramelized onion gravy. This recipe combines simple ingredients and classic techniques to create a dish that will satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this meatloaf is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and enjoy every delicious bite!