Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce is a classic dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. This recipe is a labor of love and patience, resulting in a flavorful and comforting dish that is sure to please. The combination of ground meat, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tomato beef sauce creates a dish that is both hearty and delicious.
Growing up, meatloaf was a staple in my household. My mom used to make it on Sundays, and the smell of it baking in the oven would fill the house with warmth and comfort. It was a dish that brought the family together, and we would eagerly await the moment when it was finally ready to be served. To this day, the taste of a well-made meatloaf still transports me back to those cherished memories of my childhood.
Why You’ll Love this Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe
– Comforting and nostalgic flavors
– Perfect balance of meat and vegetables
– Tangy and rich tomato beef sauce
– Easy to make and budget-friendly
Ingredient Notes
MEATLOAF
– 2 lb chopped meat
– 4 eggs
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 2/3 cup oatmeal
– 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
– 1 cup finely shredded carrots
– 1 cup finely shredded celery
– 6 tablespoons ketchup
SAUCE
– 1/3 cup ketchup
– 1 can beef consomme soup (10.5 oz)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon corn starch
– Several drops of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce or Tabasco
How to make Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce
Step 1: Mix all meatloaf ingredients together
In a large bowl, combine the chopped meat, eggs, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oatmeal, bread crumbs, carrots, celery, and ketchup. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Shape into a loaf and bake
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour until the meatloaf is cooked through and browned on top.
Step 3: Prepare the sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, corn starch, beef consomme soup, dried basil, and hot sauce. Microwave the sauce for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure it is well combined.
Step 4: Pour sauce over the meatloaf
After the meatloaf has baked for one hour, pour the prepared tomato beef sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce is caramelized and the meatloaf is fully cooked.
Storage Options
Once cooked, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The meatloaf can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
Variations and Substitutions
– You can add different vegetables to the meatloaf mixture, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added flavor.
– Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices in the sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
– Try adding a layer of bacon on top of the meatloaf before baking for a smoky twist.
What to Serve with Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Steamed green beans
– Buttered corn on the cob
– Crusty garlic bread
Serve this comforting meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a classic and satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for the chopped meat in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey may cook faster than beef.
2. Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you want to have dinner ready to go.
3. What can I use as a substitute for oatmeal in the meatloaf?
If you don’t have oatmeal on hand, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute in the meatloaf mixture. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still bind the ingredients together.
4. Can I double the recipe to make a larger meatloaf?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients in this recipe to make a larger meatloaf. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the meatloaf cooks through properly.
Making this Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce recipe is a delightful journey that will reward you with a tender, flavorful meatloaf that is perfect for sharing with your loved ones. The rich tomato beef sauce adds a tangy touch to the dish, complementing the hearty meat and vegetables. Prepare to be transported back to the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals with each delicious bite. Enjoy!
Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 lb chopped meat
- 4 eggs
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2/3 cup oatmeal
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1 cup carrots finely shredded
- 1 cup celery finely shredded
- 6 tbsp ketchup
- 1/3 cup ketchup for sauce
- 1 can beef consomme soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp corn starch
- Frank's Red Hot Sauce or Tabasco Several drops
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together chopped meat, eggs, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oatmeal, bread crumbs, carrots, celery, and ketchup.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, corn starch, beef consomme soup, dried basil, and hot sauce. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- After baking the meatloaf for 1 hour, pour the prepared sauce over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.