Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce

🍽️ Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 works best)
1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs, lightly beaten
½ cup milk
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley (or Italian seasoning)

For the Tomato Beef Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
½ lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil)
Salt & pepper, to taste


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Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire, ketchup, salt, pepper, and parsley until just combined.
Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish or loaf pan.


2. Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.


3. Make the Tomato Beef Sauce:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and Italian seasoning.
Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.


4. Serve:
Slice meatloaf and spoon the rich tomato beef sauce generously over the top.
Pair with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.