Salisbury Steak Style Meatloaf with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Salisbury Steak Style Meatloaf with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Alright, let me tell you — this Salisbury Steak style meatloaf with creamy mushroom gravy is my ultimate comfort food game changer. Imagine that classic meatloaf you grew up with, but jazzed up with a savory mushroom gravy that’s so silky and rich it practically hugs your taste buds. It’s like getting a warm, meaty hug on a plate! The best part? This recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor, so even if you’re new to meatloaf or gravy-making, you’re setting yourself up for a delicious success. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how that golden-brown crust and velvety gravy bring everything to life. Let’s dive in!

Quick Facts

  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

  • 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional but adds depth)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Creamy Mushroom Gravy:

  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands (the best tool!) to gently mix everything just until combined — don’t overwork it or the meatloaf will turn out dense.

Step 2:

Shape the mixture into a thick oval loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the loaf in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned — this crust adds so much flavor and locks in juices.

Step 3:

Transfer the skillet with the seared meatloaf to the oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. While it bakes, start on your gravy.

Step 4:

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. This step gives you rich, caramelized flavor, so don’t rush!

Step 5:

Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes — this cooks out the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6:

When the meatloaf is done, slice it thick, lay on a plate, and pour generous amounts of that creamy mushroom gravy over it. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in!

Variations & Tips

  • Swap ground beef for a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
  • For extra veggies, fold finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots into the meat mixture.
  • If you don’t have heavy cream, full-fat half-and-half works well too.
  • Want to save time? Use store-bought mushroom gravy with a splash of cream to mimic the homemade taste.
  • To make this gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs and use a gluten-free flour for the gravy.
  • If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

How I Like to Serve It

This meatloaf is perfect alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up all that luscious gravy. Add steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a pop of color and freshness. I especially love serving this on cozy weeknights when everyone wants something hearty and satisfying on their plate.

Notes

  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently in the microwave or covered on the stove to keep it juicy.
  • You can prepare the meatloaf a day ahead and bake it just before dinner; the flavors actually deepen overnight!

Closing: Seriously, once you master this Salisbury Steak style meatloaf and creamy mushroom gravy combo, it becomes your go-to comfort dinner that everyone will ask for again and again.