Here’s a hearty, flavorful recipe for Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy — rich, comforting, and perfect for a classic dinner.
🍖🧅 Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy
Ingredients (4–6 servings)
For the Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste (for topping)
For the Caramelized Onion Gravy
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make the meatloaf
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sauté finely chopped onion and garlic until softened (optional, adds more flavor).
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground meat
- Sautéed onions & garlic
- Breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, pepper, paprika
- Mix gently until just combined (avoid overmixing).
- Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish or loaf pan.
- Spread ketchup or tomato paste on top.
- Bake 50–60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes.
2. Make the caramelized onion gravy
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and sweet.
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir for 1–2 minutes to cook the flour.
- Gradually whisk in broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer 5–10 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve
- Slice meatloaf and pour the caramelized onion gravy over the top.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans.
⭐ Tips & Variations
For extra moist meatloaf
- Use a mix of beef, pork, or veal.
- Add ½ cup finely grated carrot or zucchini for moisture and flavor.
Flavor boost
- Add 1 tsp Dijon mustard to the meat mixture.
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the gravy.
Make-ahead
- Meatloaf can be shaped and baked the next day.
- Gravy can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
If you want, I can also give you:
🧅 Sweet and savory onion gravy version
🍄 Mushroom & onion gravy meatloaf
🧄 Garlic-herb meatloaf with caramelized onion gravy
⏱️ Quick 45-minute meatloaf version
