Are you craving a comforting, classic dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious meatloaf recipe, featuring a homemade tomato sauce that will elevate your dinner to new heights. Forget those bland, dry meatloaves of the past – this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful perfection every time. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy meal that's quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started with the Meatloaf:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
Prepare the Zesty Tomato Sauce:
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While the oven preheats, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Bake and Serve:
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Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the meatloaf in the loaf pan.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked properly.
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing develops gluten and leads to a tough meatloaf.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- For added flavor, consider adding a handful of shredded cheese to the meatloaf mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar or a splash of maple syrup.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a kick.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Different Ground Meats: Experiment with different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner meatloaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious meatloaf recipe with its vibrant tomato sauce is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!