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#### **Instructions for Making Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy**:
**Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf**
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Sauté the onion and garlic**: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. **Mix the ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using), sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
4. **Shape the meatloaf**: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish or a lined baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it is evenly formed for even cooking.
5. **Bake the meatloaf**: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done. If you like a slightly juicier meatloaf, you can bake it to 155°F (68°C) and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
**Step 2: Make the Caramelized Onion Gravy**
1. **Caramelize the onions**: While the meatloaf is baking, start making the gravy. In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, then cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should turn a rich golden brown color. Be patient during this process—the slower you cook the onions, the sweeter and more flavorful the caramelization will be.
2. **Add the garlic**: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. **Deglaze the pan**: If there are any browned bits stuck to the pan, pour in the dry white wine (if using) and scrape up those flavorful bits. Let the wine cook down for a couple of minutes.
4. **Make the gravy**: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Let the flour cook for a minute, then slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously. The gravy should begin to thicken. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together. Season with soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. **Finish the gravy**: Once the gravy has thickened and the flavors have developed, remove it from the heat and set it aside until ready to serve.
**Step 3: Serve**
1. **Slice the meatloaf**: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.
2. **Serve with gravy**: Spoon the caramelized onion gravy over each slice of meatloaf. The rich, sweet, and savory gravy perfectly complements the tender, well-seasoned meatloaf.
### **Tips for the Perfect Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy**
1. **Don’t overmix the meatloaf**: When mixing the ingredients for the meatloaf, be careful not to overwork the meat mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Just mix until everything is combined, and then stop.
2. **Use the right ground meat**: A mix of ground beef and ground pork gives the meatloaf a rich flavor and keeps it moist. However, if you prefer leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that these leaner options may require extra seasoning to keep them flavorful.
3. **Rest the meatloaf**: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures that each slice is moist and tender.
4. **Make the gravy in advance**: You can caramelize the onions and make the gravy ahead of time. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
5. **Experiment with seasonings**: The flavor of the meatloaf is highly customizable. You can add herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley to suit your taste. A bit of Dijon mustard or ketchup can also add a nice tang.
### **Serving Suggestions for Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy**
1. **Mashed Potatoes**: This classic side is the perfect companion to meatloaf. Creamy mashed potatoes can soak up the delicious gravy and add another layer of comfort to the meal.
2. **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a healthy, colorful contrast to the rich meatloaf.
3. **Salad**: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the heavy flavors of the meatloaf and gravy.
4. **Crispy Bread**: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy.
### **Conclusion: A Meatloaf That Delivers Flavor and Comfort**
**Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy** is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of sophistication. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful meals that warm the soul. From the perfectly seasoned meatloaf to the sweet and savory caramelized onion gravy, every bite of this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a casual meal at home, this meatloaf will be the star of the table.
So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! The end result is a meal that is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
