This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is tender, juicy, and full of classic homestyle flavor. Baked with simple seasonings and topped with rich brown gravy, it’s the kind of comfort food that brings back nostalgic family dinners.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking tray
- Skillet (for gravy)
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
🍖 Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley
🍯 Brown Gravy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef gives rich, juicy flavor
- Breadcrumbs + milk keep the meatloaf soft and tender
- Worcestershire sauce adds deep savory taste
- Brown gravy enhances moisture and richness
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix gently—do not overwork.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Shape mixture into a loaf and place in pan or baking tray.
Bake for 55–65 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make Brown Gravy
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Serve
Slice meatloaf and pour warm brown gravy over the top. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips
- Don’t overmix or meatloaf becomes dense
- Let it rest before slicing for clean cuts
- Add a glaze of ketchup on top before baking for extra flavor
- Use lean beef for less grease
Variations
Cheesy Meatloaf
Add shredded cheddar inside the mixture.
BBQ Style
Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce.
Veggie Boost
Add grated carrots or zucchini for moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting. It’s a timeless classic that turns simple ingredients into a satisfying family meal.
