Meatloaf with a Tomato Beef Sauce
Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce
This savory, satisfying meatloaf is a delicious take on the classic comfort food, made extra moist with eggs, oatmeal, and finely shredded veggies. Topped with a rich tomato beef sauce, it bakes into a flavorful, tangy glaze that finishes the dish beautifully.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Meatloaf:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground meat (beef or beef/pork blend) | 2 lbs |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 large |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Rolled oats | ⅔ cup |
| Italian-style breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Carrots, finely shredded | 1 cup |
| Celery, finely shredded | 1 cup |
| Ketchup | 6 tablespoons |
For the Tomato Beef Sauce:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | ⅓ cup |
| Beef consommé (canned) | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Dried basil | ½ teaspoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Frank’s Red Hot or Tabasco | A few drops (optional) |
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients: ground meat, eggs, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oats, breadcrumbs, shredded carrots and celery, and 6 tablespoons of ketchup. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until evenly combined—don’t overwork the mixture.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
While the meatloaf is baking, make the sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the ketchup and cornstarch. Add the beef consommé, basil, and hot sauce (if using). Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The sauce should be hot and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Glaze and Bake Again
After the first hour of baking, carefully pour the warm sauce over the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes to let the glaze set and deepen in flavor.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in and makes it easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Comfort: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and buttered green peas.
- Lighter Fare: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli.
- Leftover Magic: Slice and tuck into crusty bread for hearty meatloaf sandwiches with a spoonful of extra sauce.
