Traditional Meatloaf with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Traditional Meatloaf with Tomato Sauce is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish has deep roots in American home cooking, tracing back to frugal yet resourceful kitchens that transformed simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying family meal.

Unlike fancier versions with glazes or fillings, this recipe stays true to tradition: a tender, flavorful beef loaf baked with a simple but vibrant tomato sauce. The sauce keeps the loaf moist, adds tangy sweetness, and creates that classic Sunday-dinner aroma that fills the kitchen.

Whether you grew up eating meatloaf or you’re trying it for the first time, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food: hearty, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, nostalgic, and packed with flavor. The tomato sauce isn’t just a topping—it infuses the meat with tangy richness while baking, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Unlike the sweet ketchup glaze version, this recipe leans into savory, homey flavors that feel hearty and grounding.

I also love how versatile it is. You can serve it as a centerpiece for Sunday dinner, slice it into sandwiches for the next day, or even crumble leftovers into pasta sauce. It’s one of those dishes that feels just as good reheated as it does fresh from the oven.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic & timeless – a piece of American comfort food history.
• Affordable & filling – perfect for family meals on a budget.
• Moist & flavorful – tomato sauce keeps it juicy and delicious.
• Crowd-pleaser – simple, wholesome flavors everyone loves.
• Perfect leftovers – makes incredible sandwiches or pasta toppers.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per Serving: ~370 kcal

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups canned tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes, smooth)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried basil (or oregano)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Reserve 1 cup for topping the meatloaf and keep the rest warm for serving.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley.
2. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix to avoid toughness.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan (or shape freeform on a baking sheet).

Step 5: Add the Tomato Sauce

Spoon about 1 cup of the tomato sauce evenly over the top of the loaf.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra tomato sauce on the side.

How to Serve

• Pair with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic dinner.
• Slice thin for meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
• Serve with pasta and use extra tomato sauce as a topping.
• Add a side salad and garlic bread for a hearty meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for juicy results—leaner beef may be dry.
• Don’t overmix—gently fold the ingredients together.
• Letting the meatloaf rest prevents it from crumbling when sliced.
• If using crushed tomatoes, blend briefly for a smoother sauce.
• Add grated carrot or zucchini for hidden veggie goodness.

Variations

• Italian Style: Add Parmesan cheese and fresh basil to the meat mixture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the center.
• Mushroom & Beef Mix: Replace 1 lb beef with finely chopped mushrooms for a lighter loaf.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Shape loaf, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Saucepan for tomato sauce
• Meat thermometer

Conclusion

Traditional Meatloaf with Tomato Sauce is the kind of recipe that feels like home—simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying. The rich tomato sauce sets it apart from other versions, keeping the loaf moist while adding layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or to stock your freezer with hearty meals, this dish is a tried-and-true classic you’ll return to again and again. It’s comfort food at its finest—rich, simple, and made to be shared.