Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
500g ground beef (or mix of beef & chicken)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme or mixed herbs
2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)
For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp oil
1 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 2–3 minutes.
Add ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Mix gently (don’t overmix).
Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish or loaf pan.
Step 2: Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp ~70–75°C).
Step 3: Make Caramelized Onion Gravy
Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium-low heat.
Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and caramelized.
Sprinkle flour over onions and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually add broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 4: Serve
Slice meatloaf and pour warm onion gravy over the top.
🍴 Serving Ideas
Mashed potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Buttered rice or dinner rolls
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape it, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: How do I keep meatloaf moist?
Using milk-soaked breadcrumbs and not overmixing helps keep it juicy.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf (well wrapped) for up to 2 months.
Q: What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute with soy sauce + a little vinegar or ketchup.
Q: Can I make it healthier?
Use lean ground meat, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and reduce butter in the gravy.
