- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk (or broth for moisture)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Beef Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, celery, garlic, parsley, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender).
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
3. Make the Tomato Beef Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Optional: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Spoon half of the tomato beef sauce over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to coat the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Optional: Brush additional sauce over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra flavor.
5. Rest and Serve
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve with the remaining tomato beef sauce on the side or drizzled over the slices.
- Enjoy every bite of this savory, saucy, and indulgent Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete spread.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
- Add Cheese: Top the meatloaf with shredded cheddar or Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce combines the tender juiciness of a well-seasoned meatloaf with the bold, tangy flavors of a homemade tomato beef sauce into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste, while the simple preparation ensures consistent results. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite sides, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this meatloaf might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨