Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy

INGREDIENTS

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• ½ lb ground pork (optional, for added richness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, diced onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined — don’t overmix.
3. Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the caramelized onion gravy:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
   • Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes, until deeply golden and caramelized.
   • Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute to cook the raw flour.
   • Gradually whisk in beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer 5–10 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.
5. Once the meatloaf is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve warm slices of meatloaf with generous spoonfuls of caramelized onion gravy on top. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your comforting, flavor-packed dinner! Let me know if you’d like a mashed potato or vegetable side pairing suggestion.