Salisbury Steak Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
Ah, Salisbury steak meatloaf — this dish feels like a warm hug from the inside. Imagine that perfect, cozy evening when you’re craving something homey and satisfying: tender, seasoned beef shaped into a rustic loaf, smothered with rich, velvety mushroom gravy. The aroma of sautéed mushrooms and savory beef filling the kitchen is just irresistible. I love how the gravy seeps into every bite, making the meatloaf extra juicy and delicious. Plus, this recipe is a fantastic twist on classic comfort food that’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to impress family or friends. Ready to dig in? Let’s dive into making this hearty, soul-soothing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a little warmth)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini work great)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How I Make It
Step 1:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until soft and mushy — this keeps the meatloaf nice and tender. Then add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently but thoroughly; overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so use your hands or a fork and just combine everything evenly.
Step 2:
Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and carefully brown the meatloaf on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is key — it locks in flavor and gives your meatloaf that irresistible crust.
Step 3:
Transfer the browned meatloaf to a baking dish. Baking at 350°F will finish cooking it thoroughly, about 25-30 minutes, until it reaches 160°F internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer for perfect results!
Step 4:
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in the same skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw taste.
Step 5:
Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Keep whisking until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If it gets too thick, splash in a bit more broth or water to loosen it.
Step 6:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm smothered in mushroom gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for that bright, fresh pop of color. Get ready for compliments!
Variations & Tips
- Swap ground beef for half beef, half pork for extra juiciness.
- Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the meat mixture.
- If you want a cheesier twist, stuff the center with a few slices of cheddar or mozzarella before baking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for a lighter texture.
- For a vegetarian option, try lentils or a plant-based beef substitute.
- Double the gravy recipe to have extra sauce for mashed potatoes or vegetables.
How I Like to Serve It
I often serve this Salisbury steak meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans to complete that hearty, comforting vibe. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or anytime you need a little extra cozy on your plate. Leftovers? It’s fantastic reheated with a side of roasted carrots or even in a sandwich the next day.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep the gravy silky and the meatloaf moist.
Closing: This Salisbury steak meatloaf with mushroom gravy is a timeless comfort dish that’s always a winner at my table—easy to make, full of flavor, and downright irresistible every single time.
