Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy Recipe

Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy Recipe

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A classic comfort food elevated with the sweetness of caramelized onions in a rich, flavorful gravy. This meatloaf is moist, savory, and perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup milk (or beef broth for extra flavor)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper  
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch slurry for gluten-free)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Meatloaf Preparation:

  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk (or broth), beaten egg, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until well combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
  4. 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:

  1. Caramelize Onions: In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until deeply caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Deglaze: Add brown sugar and balsamic vinegar to the caramelized onions. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vinegar to reduce slightly.
  3. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour (or add your cornstarch slurry) over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-10 minutes.
  4. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with the caramelized onion gravy spooned over it. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

  • For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
  • Add a layer of ketchup or tomato sauce on top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
  • You can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or celery to the meatloaf mixture.
  • For a cornstarch slurry, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, before adding it to the gravy.
  • For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine to the gravy when deglazing the pan.

Enjoy your delicious Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy!

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