Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce

Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce

Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce is a deliciously hearty twist on the classic comfort food. Moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, this meatloaf brings together juicy ground meat, tender vegetables, and a tangy tomato beef sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home — comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying with every bite.

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in its combination of texture and taste. The meatloaf stays wonderfully moist thanks to the addition of eggs, shredded carrots, celery, and oatmeal, while the topping sauce infuses every slice with rich, savory sweetness. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food: Brings back the cozy, home-cooked flavors you grew up with.
• Perfectly moist texture: The oatmeal and vegetables lock in moisture while keeping the loaf tender.
• Rich and tangy sauce: The tomato beef sauce adds depth and flavor to every bite.
• Family-friendly: Ideal for weeknight dinners or Sunday lunches.
• Easy to customize: Use beef, pork, or a mix — it all works beautifully.

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Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Meatloaf:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chopped meat (beef, or a mix of beef and pork)	2 lbs
Eggs	4
Large onion, finely chopped	1
Chopped parsley	2 tablespoons
Salt	2 teaspoons
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Oatmeal	⅔ cup
Italian breadcrumbs	1 cup
Finely shredded carrots	1 cup
Finely shredded celery	1 cup
Ketchup	6 tablespoons

For the Tomato Beef Sauce:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	½ lb
Tomato paste	1 can (6 oz)
Water	1 cup
Brown sugar	2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Salt and black pepper	To taste

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, eggs, chopped onion, parsley, oatmeal, breadcrumbs, shredded carrots, shredded celery, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix gently using your hands or a large spoon until just combined — avoid overmixing, as this can make the loaf dense.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish or loaf pan, shaping it into a firm loaf. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to allow the surface to brown slightly and lock in flavor.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Beef Sauce

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Stir in tomato paste, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Continue Baking

After the meatloaf has baked for 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and pour the tomato beef sauce evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the slices hold together better. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

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Tips for Perfect Meatloaf

• Use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overmix the ingredients — just combine until even.
• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.
• For extra flavor, mix a bit of barbecue sauce or mustard into the tomato topping.
• Leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day!

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Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes with brown gravy
• Roasted green beans or asparagus
• Buttered corn or peas for a classic homestyle touch
• Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the sauce

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Final Thoughts

Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce is more than just a meal — it’s a comforting slice of home. Every layer is full of flavor, from the moist, tender loaf to the rich, tangy sauce that ties it all together. Whether you’re making it for family dinner, Sunday lunch, or a cozy night in, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable meal every time.