Meat Loaf With Vegetable Gravy
A hearty meat loaf paired with a savory vegetable gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying meat lovers seeking rich flavors and tender textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, dry onion soup mix, and egg until well blended.
- Press the mixture into a loaf pan and bake at 350°F until cooked through, about 60 minutes.
- Remove from oven, let rest briefly, then cut into squares.
- Arrange the meat loaf squares on plates.
- In a skillet, combine chopped onion, carrots, and chopped celery.
- Cook in oil until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add brown gravy to the cooked vegetables and heat thoroughly.
- Serve the vegetable gravy over the meat loaf squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or chopped herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made gravy or even make your own using a simple roux. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Also, feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the vegetable mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf squares with a generous ladle of vegetable gravy over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of Teresa'S Brown Rice for a complete meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can add a nice crunch and balance the richness of the meat loaf. Consider a slice of crusty bread to mop up the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes is another option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Vegetable Gravy contains roughly 1081 calories, with 10g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1481mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked.
What can I substitute for the dry onion soup mix?
If you don't have dry onion soup mix, you can create a homemade version using dehydrated onion, garlic powder, and a bit of beef bouillon. This blend will mimic the flavor and add depth to your meat loaf.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meat loaf or the raw mixture. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).