There's nothing quite as comforting as a classic meatloaf with tomato sauce. It's a dish that has been cherished for generations, offering a savory, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
We love making this meatloaf because it's easy, full of flavor, and made with all-natural ingredients—no pre-packaged seasoning mixes here! The combination of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and a delicious homemade tomato sauce creates a flavor explosion that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make this classic meatloaf with tomato sauce, gather these simple ingredients:
Meatloaf Ingredients:
• 2.5 pounds ground meat
• ¾ cup chopped yellow onion
• ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Spray oil for baking sheet
Tomato Sauce Ingredients:
• 3 cups ketchup
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, dried mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together and set the sauce aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a broiler pan with oil and set it aside. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onions, green bell peppers, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. Be careful not to overmix to keep the texture tender. Once everything is well combined, transfer the meat mixture to a clean countertop and shape it into a loaf.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the shaped loaf onto the prepared broiler pan with a drip pan underneath to catch any excess juices. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce
Once the meatloaf has reached 150°F, remove it from the oven and spoon the prepared tomato sauce over the top of the loaf. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This final step ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and the sauce has had time to meld with the meat.
Step 5: Let the Meatloaf Rest
When the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Allow it to sit for 3-4 minutes to rest and allow the juices to redistribute. After it rests, it's time to slice it and serve!
Serve and Enjoy
We love serving this classic meatloaf with a little extra tomato sauce on the side. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh green salad. This comforting dish will quickly become a family favorite, offering both savory flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone will enjoy.
Not only is this recipe quick to make, but it also provides the perfect balance of ingredients—savory, tangy, and just the right amount of sweetness. The next time you're craving comfort food, give this classic meatloaf with tomato sauce a try, and watch as it becomes an instant hit at your table!
