Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- ½ lb ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for a few minutes.
- Add the beef, pork, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently — don’t overwork the meat.
- Shape into a loaf on the tray or press into the pan.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until internal temp hits 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Make the Caramelized Onion Gravy:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook slowly for 15-20 minutes until golden and sweet. Stir occasionally.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions, stir, and cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened — about 5 minutes.
3. Serve:
Slice the meatloaf and smother it with the rich, savory onion gravy. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
Want me to add a twist — maybe a BBQ glaze or a cheese-stuffed version?