This recipe is for a classic and comforting Savory Meatloaf, elevated by a rich and flavorful Caramelized Onion Gravy. Meatloaf is a dish made from ground meat (typically beef, pork, or a combination), mixed with breadcrumbs or other binders, eggs, vegetables (like onions and celery), and various seasonings, then shaped into a loaf and baked. 1 This version emphasizes a savory flavor profile, likely incorporating herbs like parsley and thyme, and perhaps a touch of garlic. The meatloaf is baked until cooked through and often develops a slightly browned and caramelized exterior, especially if a glaze (such as a tomato-based or brown sugar glaze) is applied during the last part of baking. 2 The real highlight of this dish is the accompanying Caramelized Onion Gravy. Caramelizing onions involves slowly cooking them over low heat for an extended period, which brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deep, rich flavor. 3 This caramelized sweetness forms the base of the gravy, which is typically further enriched with beef broth, butter, and sometimes a touch of flour or cornstarch to thicken it to a luscious consistency. The gravy perfectly complements the savory meatloaf, adding moisture and a layer of sweet and savory depth. Often garnished with fresh herbs like parsley, this Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or a hearty supper. It offers a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, with the caramelized onions adding a touch of elegance and intense flavor. The image shows a sliced meatloaf on a serving platter. The meatloaf has a rich brown color and appears moist. It is topped with several rings of deeply caramelized onions that have a glossy, golden-brown hue. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled over the top as a garnish. A dark, savory gravy is visible around the base of the meatloaf.
The texture of Savory Meatloaf is typically moist and tender throughout, with a slightly firmer exterior. The Caramelized Onion Gravy is smooth and rich, with the soft, sweet texture of the caramelized onions themselves.
The flavor profile is a comforting blend of savory ground meat, aromatic vegetables and herbs in the meatloaf, enhanced by the deep, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor of the caramelized onions in the gravy, with a rich, umami depth from the beef broth.
Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting family meal or a more elegant dinner.
The preparation involves making and baking the meatloaf, and separately caramelizing onions to create a rich gravy.
Ingredients:
For the Savory Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mixture of beef, pork, and veal)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup milk or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional glaze: ¼ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vinegar
For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, optional)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatloaf: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk or beef broth, chopped parsley, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape and Bake the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. If using a glaze, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the caramelized onions for the gravy. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized. Be patient; this process takes time to bring out the sweetness of the onions. If the onions start to stick or burn, reduce the heat slightly and add a tablespoon of water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Make the Onion Gravy: Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle the flour over them (if using flour as a thickener) and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. If using cornstarch, whisk the cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir it into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened. Stir in the balsamic vinegar (if using). Season the gravy with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the rested meatloaf and arrange the slices on a serving platter. Spoon the warm caramelized onion gravy generously over the meatloaf. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Enjoy this delicious and comforting Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy! The slow-cooked onions add a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish.