Dinner

Meatloaf with Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery November 6, 2025November 6, 2025

Introduction

This classic meatloaf recipe is packed with savory ingredients and topped with a rich tomato beef sauce. It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners any night of the week.

Two white square plates sit on a white marbled surface, each holding three sections of food: mashed potatoes with a smooth texture topped with a brown gravy pool in the center, bright orange sliced cooked carrots arranged neatly beside them, and a thick slice of meatloaf with a dark brown, slightly crispy top. Behind the plates, there is a clear glass dish with more meatloaf and gravy, resting on a white cloth with blue stripes. The meatloaf in the baking dish has a darker crust and visible sauce on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds chopped meat
4 eggs
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2/3 cup oatmeal
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
1 cup finely shredded carrots
1 cup finely shredded celery
6 tablespoons ketchup
1/3 cup ketchup (for sauce)
1 can beef consomme soup (10.5 oz)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon corn starch
Several drops of Frank’s red hot sauce or Tabasco (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together all the meatloaf ingredients until evenly combined.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Step 3: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and corn starch until smooth. Stir in the beef consomme soup, dried basil, and hot sauce if using.
Step 4: Transfer the sauce mixture to a microwave-safe container and heat in the microwave for 3 minutes. Stir well after heating.
Step 5: After the first hour of baking, pour the sauce evenly over the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor.
Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra moisture and taste.
Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for different texture.
For a spicier sauce, increase the hot sauce quantity to taste.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Two white square plates are shown on a white marble textured surface, each plate having three sections of food. One section holds a thick slice of meatloaf with a dark brown, slightly glazed top and visible bits of vegetables inside. Another section has mashed potatoes with a smooth texture topped with brown gravy in the center. The last section contains bright orange cooked carrot slices piled neatly. Behind the plates, a glass baking dish with more meatloaf covered in sauce rests on a white and blue checked cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat for this meatloaf?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats depending on your preference. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Including vegetables like shredded carrots and celery helps add moisture. Also, avoid overbaking and use a sauce to keep the meatloaf moist during the final baking stage.