Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce

 

🍖 Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce: Classic Comfort Food with a Savory Twist

Few dishes say comfort food like meatloaf, and when paired with a rich, savory tomato beef sauce, it becomes an unforgettable family favorite. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful meatloaf topped with a luscious sauce that keeps every bite moist and delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s a timeless dish everyone will love.

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🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and flavorful: The tomato beef sauce locks in moisture and enhances taste.

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

• Classic comfort: A hearty dish that evokes home-cooked warmth.

• Versatile: Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef

• ½ cup bread crumbs

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 egg, beaten

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the tomato beef sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• ½ cup beef broth

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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🔪 Directions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Prepare the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Press mixture into the prepared loaf pan.

3. Bake the meatloaf: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes.

4. Prepare the tomato beef sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Combine and finish: Pour the tomato beef sauce over the baked meatloaf and bake an additional 10 minutes.

6. Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, topped with extra sauce if desired.

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🌟 Tips & Variations

• Cheesy twist: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the meatloaf mixture for extra richness.

• Make ahead: Prepare meatloaf and sauce in advance; bake fresh before serving.

• Flavor boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatloaf.

• Leftover ideas: Slice meatloaf for sandwiches or reheat for another meal.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce.

• Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

• Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or potluck contributions.

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💛 The Bottom Line

Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce is a comforting, hearty dish that combines juicy meatloaf with a savory tomato sauce. Easy to prepare and always satisfying, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and flavor to the dinner table.