Easy Meatloaf with Gravy

Name: Easy Meatloaf with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Easy Meatloaf with Gravy recipe! It combines the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals with a quick preparation time. We often enjoy this dish during family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners because it always hits the spot. The moist meatloaf paired with the savory gravy keeps everyone asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and about an hour in the kitchen, I can have a hearty, satisfying meal ready to share.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:19:11.557Z

From my first attempt to perfect the meatloaf to finally landing on this Simple Easy Meatloaf with Gravy recipe, I’ve learned that the right balance of breadcrumbs and spices makes all the difference. I always make sure to let the ingredients blend and rest for a few minutes before shaping the loaf, which aids in flavor development and texture.

One trick I've adopted is to use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor profile. The gravy is simple—just pan drippings and a bit of beef broth—bringing everything together beautifully and ensuring this meal becomes a cherished family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Easy Meatloaf
        Juicy meatloaf topped with delicious homemade gravy
Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home
Comforting, nostalgic flavors perfect for the whole family

      

The Perfect Blend of Meats

Combining both ground beef and ground pork in this Easy Meatloaf not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a juicier texture. The beef provides rich, beefy notes while the pork adds a subtle sweetness and moisture. This combination helps to ensure that your meatloaf doesn’t dry out during baking, which is a common issue with single-meat options. If you prefer a leaner version, consider using ground turkey or chicken, but keep an eye on moisture levels by adding extra milk or egg.

Using fresh herbs, such as thyme in this recipe, can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Dried herbs like thyme release their full potential during the cooking process, infusing the meatloaf with a warm, earthy taste. Although dried herbs are convenient, if you want to experiment with fresh thyme, use three times the amount. Chopping the fresh herbs finely helps distribute their flavor evenly throughout the meat mixture.

Mastering the Gravy

Making the homemade gravy from meatloaf drippings can take your dish to the next level. As the meatloaf bakes, consider saving any juices that accumulate in your baking dish to incorporate into your gravy. This adds an extra layer of depth and enhances the overall flavor, making your gravy more savory. If you find your gravy too thick, a splash of additional beef broth or water helps smooth it out without sacrificing flavor.

When preparing the gravy, it's essential to whisk continuously after adding the beef broth to prevent lumps. A well-cooked roux, combined with the broth, will create a silky texture. Cooking the roux until it's lightly golden (about two minutes) before adding the broth is crucial; this step deepens the flavor and ensures the flour is adequately cooked. For a richer taste, you might experiment by adding a splash of heavy cream at the end, which will also enhance creaminess.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Meatloaf

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Gravy

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy Your Meatloaf!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until well combined.

Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until cooked through.

Make the Gravy

While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour, cooking for a minute before gradually whisking in the beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with the gravy and any sides of your choice!

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Easy Meatloaf stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure it's in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to serve it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the meatloaf with foil to keep it moist while reheating. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through, adding a little beef broth to the dish can also help retain moisture.

If you’re looking to prepare ahead of time, the meat mixture can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Alternatively, the baked meatloaf freezes beautifully for up to three months. Slice it before freezing, allowing for quicker reheating. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple garden salad. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with creamy coleslaw or roasted carrots which add a nice crunch against the softer texture of the meatloaf. Drizzling more gravy over all components of your dish can unify flavors and create an appealing presentation.

To add a modern twist, you can turn leftovers into meatloaf sandwiches. Use hearty bread, a spread of Dijon mustard, and a layer of lettuce for a delicious lunch option. You can even crumble leftover meatloaf into pasta dishes or grain bowls, providing a flavorful protein source that can transform your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for the meatloaf?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives are great substitutes!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What sides go well with meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.