There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of homemade meatloaf topped with velvety mushroom gravy. This Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy recipe transforms simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, and herbs into a tender, flavorful main dish that tastes just like a Sunday family dinner at Grandma’s house.
The secret lies in the rich mushroom gravy—made from sautéed mushrooms, butter, and cream—that adds a savory depth and restaurant-quality finish to this beloved classic.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and juicy: The perfect ratio of ground beef to breadcrumbs keeps the loaf moist without falling apart.
- Rich mushroom gravy: Creamy, buttery, and full of umami, it takes this dish from simple to special.
- Family favorite: Ideal for weeknights or Sunday dinners—and the leftovers are even better the next day.
- Easy to prepare: Straightforward ingredients and steps make this a great comfort meal for any home cook.
🍄 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor and texture)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini or baby bella recommended)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or line a sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared dish. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Mushroom Gravy
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, then add the cream. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the meatloaf and generously ladle the warm mushroom gravy over each serving. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for the ultimate comfort meal.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that savory gravy.
- Add roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for a balanced plate.
- For a fun twist, serve leftover slices as meatloaf sandwiches on toasted sourdough.
🔁 Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Store leftovers: Keep cooked meatloaf and gravy in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze meatloaf (without gravy) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Use 80/20 ground beef—the slight fat content keeps it juicy.
- Chop onions finely to ensure even texture and clean slices.
- Create a shallow groove on top of the loaf to catch more gravy.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain its juices.
- If reheating gravy, add a splash of broth to bring back its silky texture.
🧂 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for variation.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer—160°F (71°C) is the perfect internal temperature.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate the loaf mixture a day before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap cooked slices tightly and freeze. Store gravy separately.
🍴 Recipe Summary
Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
A classic, homestyle meatloaf made with seasoned ground beef and topped with a rich, creamy mushroom gravy—perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy