Description
Cheesy Meatloaf with Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs (900g) ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Gravy:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Assemble Meatloaf:
Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the layer, then add the remaining meat mixture on top. Press it down gently to seal the edges.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Prepare the Gravy:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add Cheese and Broil:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Pour the gravy over each slice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. When mixing the meatloaf, use your hands or a fork to combine thoroughly, but avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf tough. When assembling the layered meatloaf, press the first half firmly into the pan to create a solid base. After adding the cheese, ensure the top layer of meat completely encases it, sealing the edges to prevent cheese leakage. Use a meat thermometer to check for the precise 160°F internal temperature. For the gravy, cook the flour-butter roux until it’s a light golden brown for the best flavor, and whisk the broth in slowly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides. Serve slices with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or roasted garlic parmesan potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. For vegetables, try steamed green beans, glazed carrots, or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Leftovers make an excellent sandwich the next day on toasted bread with a little extra gravy.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Mix beef with binders and seasonings, create a cheese-filled center layer in a loaf pan, and bake at 375°F until cooked through. Simultaneously, make a simple gravy by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in beef broth and Worcestershire. Top the baked meatloaf with more cheese and broil until melted. Rest before slicing and serving with the homemade gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat? Yes, you can use a mix of beef and pork, or even ground turkey. Adjust cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. For the gravy, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour or cornstarch slurry.
Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why is my meatloaf falling apart? This is often due to insufficient binding agents. Ensure you use the correct amount of breadcrumbs and eggs. Letting the meatloaf rest for a full 10 minutes after baking is also crucial for it to set.
Can I freeze the cooked meatloaf? Yes. Cool the meatloaf completely, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat, which results in a dense, tough texture.
- Not sealing the cheese layer properly, causing it to leak out during baking.
- Skipping the rest time after baking, leading to slices that crumble.
- Adding cold broth to the gravy roux, which can cause lumps. Use broth at room temperature or warm it slightly.
- Broiling the cheese topping for too long, which can burn it instead of just melting it.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Meatloaf with Gravy transforms a traditional comfort food into a show-stopping meal. The hidden cheesy center and rich, savory gravy elevate it beyond the ordinary. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a reliably delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!