This classic Southern Meatloaf with Brown Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. Made with seasoned ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, and a few simple ingredients, the meatloaf stays tender and juicy while the rich homemade brown gravy adds incredible flavor.
Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or your favorite Southern side dishes for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef, preferably 80/20
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
For the Brown Gravy
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
Place the ground beef, diced onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley in a large bowl.
Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until just combined.
Don’t overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
If using a baking sheet, shape the meatloaf into a compact loaf with slightly rounded edges.
4. Bake
Bake for approximately 50–60 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
5. Make the Brown Gravy
While the meatloaf is resting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. The flour should become lightly golden and fragrant.
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue cooking for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve
Slice the rested meatloaf and spoon plenty of warm brown gravy over each serving.
For the ultimate Southern comfort-food plate, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
Tips for a Juicy Southern Meatloaf
- Don’t overwork the meat. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
- Use ground beef with some fat. An 80/20 blend helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
- Let it rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes cleaner slices.
- Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce. It adds a savory depth that works beautifully with the beef.
- Make the gravy fresh. Homemade brown gravy takes only a few minutes and makes the meal extra comforting.
Easy Variations
Add Vegetables
Finely diced bell peppers, celery, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf for additional flavor.
Add Cheese
For a cheesy version, mix shredded cheddar into the meat mixture or place a layer of cheese in the center before shaping the loaf.
Make It Spicier
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Use Leftovers
Leftover meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches. Simply slice it, warm it up, and serve it on toasted bread with a little extra brown gravy.
What to Serve with Southern Meatloaf
This meatloaf pairs especially well with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Southern-style green beans
- Buttered corn
- Macaroni and cheese
- Collard greens
- Roasted vegetables
- Dinner rolls
- Creamed potatoes
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm individual slices gently in the microwave or heat them in a covered skillet with a little gravy or beef broth to help keep them moist.
You can also freeze cooked meatloaf slices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a homemade Southern Meatloaf with Brown Gravy. The tender, seasoned beef, savory onions, and rich gravy make every bite satisfying and nostalgic.
Serve it over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, pour the brown gravy over the top, and you’ve got a classic homemade dinner that’s simple, hearty, and perfect for the whole family.