BEST MEATLOAF IN A TOMATO SAUCE
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with the Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce recipe. This hearty dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef and turkey with a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why Make Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce
- A classic comfort food dish with a twist, this meatloaf is elevated by the addition of a tangy tomato sauce.
- Perfect for meat lovers and those craving a hearty, home-cooked meal.
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- Medium yellow onion
- Garlic
- Parsley leaves
- Ground beef (90% lean)
- Ground turkey
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Milk
- Egg
- Dried Italian seasoning
- Crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- Angel hair pasta
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Coarse salt
- Freshly ground pepper
How to Make Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the onion mixture: In a food processor, combine the onion, garlic, and parsley. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground turkey, onion mixture, Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a flat surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in the center of a casserole dish.
- Prepare the tomato sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes around the meatloaf in the casserole dish. Brush some of the tomatoes over the top of the loaf and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve it with the cooked pasta, topped with additional tomato sauce. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the meatloaf alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair it with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting dinner option.
Storage Info
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Techniques or Tips
- Let the meatloaf sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to prevent your hands from getting too cold.
- Use lean ground beef and turkey for a healthier version of this classic dish.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender and moist.
Variation
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the meatloaf mixture, such as thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes, to customize the flavor to your liking.
FAQs about Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce
Q: Can I use different types of meat in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different combinations of ground meat, such as beef, pork, or chicken, according to your preference.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in advance, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf for later use.
Q: Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of canned? A: Absolutely! Homemade tomato sauce will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the meatloaf. Simply substitute an equal amount of homemade sauce for the canned tomatoes in the recipe.
Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce
This Best Meatloaf in a Tomato Sauce recipe elevates the classic comfort food with a flavorful tomato sauce. Made with a combination of ground beef and ground turkey, seasoned with herbs and spices, and topped with a rich tomato sauce, this meatloaf is moist, tender, and bursting with delicious flavors. Serve it alongside angel hair pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a food processor, combine the onion, garlic, and parsley. Pulse a few times until the mixture is a fine chop.
- In a large bowl, combine the beef, turkey, onion mixture, Panko, parmesan, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, and a teaspoon of coarse salt. Grind a little bit of black pepper right on in. Mix with your hands until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a flat surface and shape into a loaf. Gently place the loaf in the center of a casserole dish and carefully pour the crushed tomatoes around it. Brush the tomatoes over the top of the loaf. Sprinkle the tomatoes with a little salt.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- In the meantime, boil the angel hair until al dente, just about 5 minutes (or less!), drain and toss with the 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt as well.
- Slice and serve the meatloaf with the pasta, and a good spoonful of the bright tomato sauce! Garnish with parsley and parmesan.
Notes
This meatloaf can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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