Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf (serves 10–12):

• 3 lbs (1.3 kg) ground beef (80/20 works best)
• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (optional, for tenderness)
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for kick)
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Beef Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 2 cans (28 oz / 800 g each) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

1. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, ground pork, eggs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Parmesan, ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard, and seasonings.
3. Mix gently with your hands until well combined (don’t overmix or it’ll be tough).
4. Shape into a large loaf (or two smaller loaves) and place on a greased baking pan or lined sheet.

2. Bake the Meatloaf:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Tomato Beef Sauce:

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, cook until browned.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire, sugar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich.

4. Serve:

• Slice the meatloaf, spoon the hot tomato beef sauce generously over each serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. This makes a big batch – enough for a large family dinner, meal prep, or leftovers for sandwiches the next day.