Southern meatloaf with brown gravy

🍖🧅 Southern Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred for moisture)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltines

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried thyme or parsley

• Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or Creole seasoning for a Southern kick

For the Brown Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt & black pepper to taste

🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix just until combined — don’t overwork it.

3. Form into a loaf shape and place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

4. Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

2️⃣ Make the Brown Gravy

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden (this is the roux).

3. Slowly whisk in beef broth, stirring to prevent lumps.

4. Add Worcestershire sauce and simmer 5–7 minutes, or until thickened.

5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3️⃣ Serve

• Spoon brown gravy generously over sliced meatloaf.

• Serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, corn, or fried okra.

✅ Tips

• Use a mix of beef and pork for a softer texture.

• Add grated carrot or bell pepper for extra flavor and moisture.

• For a deeper gravy, sauté a bit of diced onion or mushrooms in the butter before making the roux.

Would you like a slow cooker version, a spicy Cajun twist, or how to turn the leftovers into Southern meatloaf sandwiches?