Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and parsley.
Step 3
Mix everything gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat so the meatloaf stays tender.
Step 4
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into an even loaf, pressing lightly so it holds together.
Step 5
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, then cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 6
Add the ground beef to the saucepan and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 7
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 8
Spread half of the tomato beef sauce evenly over the prepared meatloaf, reserving the remaining sauce for serving.
Step 9
Bake the meatloaf for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Step 10
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
Step 11
Warm the reserved tomato beef sauce if necessary and spoon it generously over each slice of meatloaf.
Step 12
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, buttered green beans, or fresh bread for a complete comfort meal.
Tips and Variations:
Don’t Overmix
Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatloaf soft, juicy, and tender.
Use Lean Ground Beef
Ground beef that’s around 80–85% lean provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture without becoming greasy.
Add Hidden Vegetables
Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers blend into the meat mixture while adding moisture and extra nutrition.
Make It Cheesy
Mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan into the meatloaf for a rich and cheesy center.
Spice It Up
Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you prefer a little heat in both the meatloaf and sauce.
Make It Ahead
Prepare the meatloaf a day in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it fresh for an easy dinner with even better flavor.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for Later
Freeze individual slices with the tomato beef sauce for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight before reheating gently.
