MEATLOAF WITH A TOMATO BEEF SAUCE

Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce

Meatloaf is one of those nostalgic dishes that brings people together at the dinner table. This recipe takes the humble classic to the next level by pairing it with a rich, savory tomato beef sauce that keeps the loaf moist and full of flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a Sunday family feast, this dish is hearty, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying.

 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Beef Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ pound ground beef (or use leftover browned beef)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ½ cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
3. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined (overmixing makes the loaf dense).
4. Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into an even loaf.

2. Bake the Meatloaf

1. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, until nearly cooked through.
2. While it bakes, prepare the tomato beef sauce.

3. Make the Tomato Beef Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and beef broth. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Finish the Meatloaf

1. After 45–50 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven.
2. Spread a generous layer of the tomato beef sauce over the top.
3. Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Rest and Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with extra tomato beef sauce spooned over each slice.

 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or buttered corn.
• Leftovers make a fantastic meatloaf sandwich the next day.
• For a lighter option, serve with a crisp side salad.

 Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Use a meat blend: A mix of ground beef, pork, and veal gives extra flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overmix: This is the secret to a soft, moist loaf.
• Add moisture: Milk, eggs, and ketchup keep the meatloaf from drying out.
• Let it rest: Resting helps the juices redistribute, so your slices stay juicy.

 Storage & Freezing

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze meatloaf (whole or sliced) tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

 Nutrition (per slice, about 8 servings)

• Calories: ~370
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sodium: 680mg

 This Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce is the kind of homestyle comfort food that never goes out of style. Juicy beef, flavorful sauce, and a tender texture make this a dinner everyone will ask for again and again.

Enjoy.