Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food—a hearty, filling dish that brings together simple ingredients in the most satisfying way. But what if you could elevate this classic dish with a savory, rich sauce that takes it to a whole new level? That’s exactly what this Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce recipe does. Tender, flavorful meatloaf, perfectly complemented by a tangy, spiced tomato beef sauce, creates a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting friends, or just craving something delicious and hearty, this meatloaf with a tomato beef sauce is a winner. The sauce has a zesty depth of flavor, with the richness of beef consomme and the subtle heat from hot sauce (optional), making this dish something truly special.
Ingredients for Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce
Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (chopped meat)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2/3 cup oatmeal (for added texture)
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
- 1 cup finely shredded celery
- 6 tablespoons ketchup (for a touch of sweetness)
Sauce:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consomme soup
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Several drops of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce or Tabasco (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions for Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce
Preparing the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully on the outside.
- Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Add in the oatmeal, Italian bread crumbs, shredded carrots, and celery. Finally, stir in the ketchup to help bind the ingredients together and infuse the meatloaf with moisture and flavor.
- Shape the Loaf: After everything is thoroughly mixed, transfer the mixture to a greased baking pan or a lined baking sheet. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, ensuring that it is evenly compacted to avoid cracks during baking.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. This allows the meat to cook through while retaining moisture, creating a tender yet firm texture.
Making the Tomato Beef Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce Base: While the meatloaf bakes, it’s time to make the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and cornstarch together. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks. Stir in the beef consomme soup, dried basil, and a few drops of your preferred hot sauce (if you like a bit of heat). The consomme adds a deep, savory flavor that will complement the meatloaf perfectly.
- Heat the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl. Microwave for 3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through. The sauce should be hot and slightly thickened. If you prefer a smoother consistency, feel free to whisk it further.
Finishing the Meatloaf:
- Add the Sauce: Once the meatloaf has baked for 1 hour, remove it from the oven and pour the prepared tomato beef sauce generously over the top. Ensure the sauce covers the meatloaf evenly, allowing the flavors to seep in during the second round of baking.
- Bake Again: Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the sauce to meld with the meatloaf, creating a flavorful and juicy finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: After the second round of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
A Meatloaf Worth Savoring
This Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce recipe is the perfect combination of classic comfort and bold, exciting flavors. The hearty, moist meatloaf, filled with vegetables, oats, and bread crumbs, offers a satisfying and nutritious base. Paired with the rich, slightly spicy tomato beef sauce, it becomes a dish that elevates the humble meatloaf to new heights. The sauce itself, made from savory beef consomme, ketchup, and a touch of hot sauce, adds a perfect layer of complexity and depth that complements the savory meat perfectly.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It’s ideal for family dinners, as it’s both filling and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as the leftovers only get better with time. You can also serve it for special occasions or gatherings, offering a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad, this meatloaf is a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
This recipe also brings a modern twist to a classic dish, combining familiar ingredients in a way that surprises and delights the palate. The addition of shredded carrots and celery not only enhances the flavor but also adds a dose of nutrition, making this a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. The sauce, with its savory richness and subtle heat, is the perfect finishing touch, giving the meatloaf a robust flavor profile that is hard to resist.
For those who love a little extra kick, the optional hot sauce or Tabasco offers a personal touch, letting you adjust the level of heat to suit your taste. The cornstarch thickens the sauce just enough, making it perfect for pouring over the meatloaf, creating a beautifully glossy finish that enhances both the look and flavor of the dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned meatloaf enthusiast or new to the dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with sophistication, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a home-cooked meal that packs a punch in both flavor and heartiness. Try it out the next time you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love—this Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce is a true keeper, offering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and heartwarming nostalgia.
