When the first hint of fall chill filled the air, I found myself reminiscing about the comforting meals of my childhood, and one dish stood front and center: meatloaf. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace that warms the heart and fills the belly. As my taste buds tingled with memories, I decided to elevate this classic with a twist—adding finely shredded vegetables for moisture and pairing it with a rich tomato beef sauce that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and savoriness.
This Moist Meatloaf with Savory Tomato Beef Sauce is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s an invitation to come together around the table, share stories, and enjoy a hearty meal that feels like home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply looking to break away from the fast-food routine, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that feels both familiar and exciting. Get ready to create a dish that’s not only delicious but truly comforting—just like a warm hug on a plate!
Why is Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce a Must-Try?
Comforting Nostalgia: This meatloaf evokes fond memories of family dinners, making it a perfect dish to gather around the table.
Moist and Flavorful: With shredded veggies enhancing texture and a savory tomato beef sauce, every bite is bursting with rich flavor.
Easy to Make: Simple instructions mean anyone can whip this up without culinary stress, ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or even in a sandwich for a delightful twist.
Meal Prep Favorite: This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals—simply prep and bake when ready! It’s a warm embrace on a plate that satisfies cravings and creates lasting memories.
Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
• Chopped Meat – 2 lbs mixed beef and pork for richness; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Eggs – 4 eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• Onion – 1 large finely chopped onion adds flavor and moisture.
• Parsley – 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for freshness; optional if not available.
• Salt – 2 teaspoons enhances overall flavor.
• Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon for a mild kick; adjust to taste.
• Oatmeal – ⅔ cup used for texture and structure; rolled oats can be used as an alternative.
• Italian Breadcrumbs – 1 cup for added crunch and bulk.
• Finely Shredded Carrots – 1 cup contributes natural sweetness and moisture.
• Finely Shredded Celery – 1 cup adds flavor and further moisture.
• Ketchup – 6 tablespoons to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
For the Tomato Beef Sauce
• Ketchup – ⅓ cup for sweetness and body in the sauce.
• Beef Consommé – 1 can (10.5 oz) for depth of flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
• Dried Basil – ½ teaspoon to complement the flavors; fresh can be used if available.
• Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon thickens the sauce; substitute with flour if needed.
• Hot Sauce – Optional few drops (like Frank’s Red Hot or Tabasco) for heat.
How to Make Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce
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Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the chopped meat, eggs, onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, oatmeal, breadcrumbs, carrots, celery, and ketchup until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender!
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Shape and Bake: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking dish or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
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Prepare the Sauce: While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the ketchup and cornstarch in a microwave-safe cup. Add the beef consommé and dried basil, stirring to combine. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sauce thickens.
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Glaze the Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf has baked for an hour, pour the savory tomato beef sauce evenly over the top and bake for an additional 30 minutes uncovered, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Rest and Serve: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Here are some delicious ways to customize your meatloaf.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options and use non-dairy milk in place of eggs for binding.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a flavor explosion that warms the soul.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that elevates traditional flavors into new realms.
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Cheesy Touch: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for added creaminess and a gooey center that will please any cheese lover.
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Vegetable Medley: Replace part of the meat with finely shredded zucchini or bell peppers for a nutrient boost and an extra layer of flavor.
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Barbecue Bliss: Swap ketchup for your favorite barbecue sauce, creating a tangy, sweet glaze that bathes the meatloaf in smoky goodness.
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Asian Twist: Mix in some soy sauce and ginger powder for an unexpected and delightful fusion that adds a rich umami depth to this classic dish.
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Mini Meatloaves: Transform the recipe into individual meatloaves by shaping smaller portions. Bake in muffin tins for quick, kid-friendly servings perfect for lunchboxes.
Expert Tips for Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce
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Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the meatloaf ingredients to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to a tough final product.
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Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is flavorful and moist.
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Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
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Vegetable Boost: Feel free to sneak in additional finely shredded vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance moisture and nutrition without altering taste.
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Sauce Timing: Pour the sauce over the meatloaf after the first hour of baking. This helps maintain the glaze and keeps it from becoming too watery throughout the cooking process.
What to Serve with Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce?
Imagine the aroma of warm, hearty flavors wafting through your kitchen as you create the perfect meal around your moist and savory meatloaf.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes creates a delightful contrast to the hearty meatloaf, absorbing the tomato beef sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Green Beans: A pop of vibrant green on your plate, they add a crisp freshness that balances the richness of the meatloaf, making every bite sing.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies brings caramelized sweetness and complexity, enhancing your dish while providing a healthy twist.
- Garlic Bread: This crunchy, buttery delight is ideal for mopping up sauce, turning every meal into a comforting feast.
- Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, brightening the flavors while maintaining that quintessential comfort food essence.
- Garden Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate between bites, making it an excellent pairing to round out your meal.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, delight in the warmth of a cinnamon-spiced apple crisp; its sweetness is a perfect way to finish this cozy meal.
- Red Wine: A glass of a medium-bodied red harmonizes beautifully with the savory flavors of the meatloaf, enriching the entire dining experience.
- Iced Tea: Refreshingly sweetened tea can cool your palate, making it a delightful complement to your hearty main dish.
- Chilled Lemonade: A zesty lemonade adds a bright burst of sweetness that cuts through the richness, turning your meal into a splendid celebration of flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Meatloaf with Savory Tomato Beef Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all the ingredients and form it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. The tomato beef sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To serve, preheat your oven and bake the meatloaf straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for best results. This way, you’ll have a deliciously comforting meal ready with minimal effort during the week!
Storage Tips for Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain moisture while keeping it safe to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate, making it convenient for quick baking the next day!
Meatloaf With A Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, I suggest using a mix of beef and pork. The combination adds richness; however, if you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works wonderfully too.
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What’s the best way to store leftover meatloaf?
Very simply! Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures it stays moist and delicious for your next meal!
Can I freeze meatloaf? If so, how?
Yes, you can! Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf comes out dry, it may be due to overmixing or baking too long. Next time, gently mix the ingredients to preserve moisture, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 160°F (70°C). Adding moist ingredients like finely shredded vegetables can also help keep it juicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. Just ensure that all your other ingredients—like the ketchup and beef consommé—are gluten-free as well for a safe and delicious meal.
Savory Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the chopped meat, eggs, onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, oatmeal, breadcrumbs, carrots, celery, and ketchup until just combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking dish or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the ketchup and cornstarch in a microwave-safe cup. Add the beef consommé and dried basil, stirring to combine. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Pour the savory tomato beef sauce over the meatloaf evenly and bake for an additional 30 minutes uncovered.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with sides.