Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! When the weather calls for a cozy night in, or you’re simply craving a dish that feels like a warm hug, nothing quite hits the spot like a classic meatloaf. But we’re not making just any meatloaf today. We’re elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness with Cheesy Meatloaf, rich homemade Gravy, and sweet, tender Caramelized Onions. This dish is the epitome of comfort food done right—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Meatloaf recipe is a perennial favorite in my home, and I know it will be in yours too. I love it because it’s a complete meal that delivers on every front: the meatloaf itself is incredibly moist and packed with flavor, thanks to the blend of meats and a hidden layer of cheese. The caramelized onions add a sophisticated sweetness that perfectly complements the savory beef, and the rich, glossy gravy brings it all together. It’s a dish that feels special and indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or a comforting weekend meal.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic Cheesy Meatloaf with Gravy and Caramelized Onions:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Gravy:

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt to taste

Swaps and Notes

• Ground Meat: The combination of ground beef and pork gives the meatloaf excellent flavor and moisture. You can use all ground beef if preferred, but adding pork makes it extra tender. Ground turkey or a blend of ground meats also works, but might yield a slightly different texture.
• Breadcrumbs & Milk: This duo is essential for a moist meatloaf. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for a slightly coarser texture.
• Onions & Garlic: Finely chopping these ensures they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf and cook down properly in the caramelized onions.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, savory note to the meatloaf. Monterey Jack or an Italian blend can also be used.
• Herbs: Dried thyme is classic, but you can add other dried herbs like oregano or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Gravy Thickener: Cornstarch creates a glossy, clear gravy. You can use flour (make a roux with the butter first) for a richer, opaque gravy.
• Caramelized Onions: The sugar helps with browning and enhances the natural sweetness of the onions. Don’t rush this process; slow cooking is key to true caramelization.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Prepare the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175∘C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Form and Bake Meatloaf: Form the meatloaf mixture into a compact loaf shape. Place it in a baking dish (a loaf pan or a shallow baking dish works well). Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71∘C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
3. Rest Meatloaf: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully drain off any excess fat from the baking dish. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist meatloaf.
4. Caramelize the Onions: While the meatloaf bakes, begin caramelizing the onions. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are very soft and starting to turn golden brown. Add the 1 teaspoon sugar and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply golden brown and sweet. Set aside.
5. Make the Gravy: In a small saucepan, melt the 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the beef broth and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering broth while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.
6. Serve: Slice the rested meatloaf into thick pieces. Arrange on serving plates and generously top each slice with the sweet caramelized onions. Drizzle the warm gravy over the meatloaf and onions. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Rest the Meatloaf: This step is vital! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, keeping it tender and preventing it from drying out.
• Low and Slow for Onions: True caramelized onions take time. Resist the urge to crank up the heat; patience will be rewarded with deep, sweet flavor.
• Thoroughly Drain Fat: Draining fat from the cooked meatloaf before resting prevents a greasy final product.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Always mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot liquid to prevent lumps.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Cheesy Meatloaf with Gravy and Caramelized Onions is a complete, hearty meal, but it pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
• Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: A simple green vegetable adds freshness and balance.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasted carrots or parsnips complement the fall flavors.
• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread is always a good idea for extra sauce mopping!
• Other Comfort Dishes: This meatloaf fits right in with other hearty, family-friendly meals like my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage or a big bowl of my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover Cheesy Meatloaf is fantastic! Store any cooled portions of meatloaf, gravy, and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat meatloaf, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150∘C) oven until heated through. Gravy can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave. Caramelized onions can be gently warmed in a skillet. Meatloaf also freezes well for up to 3 months.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the hearty, comforting nature of this Meatloaf, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other favorite satisfying and easy-to-make main courses:

• For another classic and comforting pasta meal, my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce is a must-try.
• If you’re a fan of convenient one-pan dinners packed with flavor, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Meatloaf with Gravy and Caramelized Onions is truly the epitome of comfort food done right. It’s a dish that fills your home with incredible aromas and your belly with warmth and satisfaction. Simple to make, yet profoundly delicious, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your family’s dinner rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy every savory, cheesy, sweet bite!

What are your favorite classic comfort food dishes that bring you back to your childhood? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes that bring joy to your kitchen, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.