A classic comfort food dish elevated with a rich, sweet, and savory caramelized onion gravy. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
Meatloaf Preparation:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano to the wet ingredients. Mix well.
- Incorporate Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the mixture and gently combine with your hands or a spoon until just mixed. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Top with Ketchup: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Caramelized Onion Gravy Preparation:
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden brown (about 30-40 minutes). This process takes time, be patient.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the caramelized onions. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze: Pour in the beef broth, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together flour and cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering gravy, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve it with a generous amount of the caramelized onion gravy spooned over the top.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor.
- For a deeper richer brown gravy, a teaspoon of Kitchen bouquet, or a similar browning sauce can be added.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!