Meat Loaf With Sauce
A hearty meat loaf topped with a tangy tomato sauce, blending savory flavors and a moist texture, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, milk, quick oats, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Pack the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix tomato soup, water, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, 6 tablespoons chopped onion, and vinegar to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meat loaf.
- Bake at 250° to 300° for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meat loaf, consider adding minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey. Adjust seasonings to taste, and remember to let the meat loaf rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving. To enhance the sauce, try using homemade tomato sauce instead of canned.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A side salad adds a refreshing touch to balance the dish. For a twist, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw. This meat loaf pairs beautifully with a slice of Braided Bread for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for a more evenly heated result.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Sauce contains roughly 326 calories, with 7g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1228mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze meat loaf before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. For baked meat loaf, let it cool completely, then slice and store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
To ensure the meat loaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer inserted into the center; it should read 160°F. Alternatively, cut into the center to check that there is no pink meat remaining. Cooking times may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking.
Can I use different meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of meats. Just keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments in cooking time and seasoning. Ground lamb or pork can also add unique flavors to your meat loaf.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).