My Mom'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf glazed with savory gravy, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a classic, satisfying dish with rich beef and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, egg, milk, bread crumbs, minced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic salt in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a large baking pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and cook uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Dissolve the brown gravy mix in 1 cup of water to prepare the gravy.
- Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Pour beef broth over the meatloaf and return to the oven for another 30 minutes.
- Make up the gravy packages according to the package directions.
- Pour the gravy over the meatloaf.
- Continue cooking for an additional 30 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
- Baste the meatloaf with gravy several times during cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoned bread crumbs instead of plain. If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. To keep the meatloaf moist, adding a finely chopped bell pepper or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the taste. Basting with gravy during cooking is essential for ensuring flavor and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a twist, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. It also pairs beautifully with Grandma'S Best Meat Loaf for a nostalgic family dinner. Don't forget to offer extra gravy on the side for drizzling!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mom'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 789 calories, with 14g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1725mg per serving (75% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together. Simply form it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to eat, adjusting the cooking time accordingly if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of brown gravy mix?
If you don’t have brown gravy mix on hand, you can make your own by combining beef broth, cornstarch, and seasonings like onion powder and garlic powder. This homemade version can add a fresh flavor to your meatloaf without the preservatives found in packaged mixes.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 155°F (68°C) in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is firm to the touch and the juices run clear when cut into.
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).