Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce

 

Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce – Classic Comfort Food Done Right

Few dishes say comfort food quite like meatloaf, and this Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce takes the classic to the next level. Instead of just ketchup on top, the meatloaf is paired with a savory, rich tomato beef sauce that keeps every bite moist and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and tastes even better the next day.

This recipe is simple, hearty, and perfect for a cozy family dinner — especially when served with mashed potatoes or buttered green beans.

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🍖 Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Tomato Beef Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ lb ground beef

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• ½ cup beef broth

• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf

   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

   • Mix until just combined — don’t overmix, or the loaf will be dense.

   • Shape into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.

3. Bake the Meatloaf

   • Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

   • Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

4. Make the Tomato Beef Sauce

   • While the meatloaf bakes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into crumbles.

   • Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Simmer 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened.

5. Serve & Enjoy

   • Slice meatloaf and spoon warm tomato beef sauce over the top.

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t pack the meat mixture too tightly — it keeps the loaf tender.

• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked meatloaf.

• Make extra sauce — it’s great over mashed potatoes or pasta.

• For more moisture, add ½ cup grated zucchini or carrot to the meat mixture.

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Variations

• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside the loaf.

• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

• Turkey Version: Swap ground beef for ground turkey and use chicken broth in the sauce.

• Glazed Meatloaf: Brush ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top of the loaf while baking, then serve with tomato beef sauce.