Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 is a good choice for moisture)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or Italian seasoning)
• ½ cup ketchup (for topping)

For the Tomato Beef Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.

2. Add the Topping:

• Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

3. Bake the Meatloaf:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

4. Prepare the Tomato Beef Sauce:

• While the meatloaf is baking, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Serve:

• Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve slices of meatloaf with a generous spoonful of tomato beef sauce on top.

Optional Sides:

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your hearty meatloaf with tomato beef sauce!