Meat Loaves With Spaghetti Sauce
Juicy meat loaves glazed with tangy spaghetti sauce, combining savory flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comfort and hearty satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups spaghetti sauce, divided ⓘ
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs ⓘ
- 1 small onion, minced ⓘ
- 1 large egg ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Stir together 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 2 (8-inch) loaves and place in a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you don’t have Italian breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. To enhance the sauce, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of red wine for depth. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaves topped with the remaining spaghetti sauce for a deliciously comforting meal. Pair with garlic bread and a fresh side salad for a complete dinner. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes. For a heartier option, try serving alongside the Special Tea Meat Loaf for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the meat loaves cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, place the slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel to keep them moist, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaves With Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 671 calories, with 15g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (159% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1433mg per serving (62% 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 loaves before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meat loaves before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, try using ground pork or a mix of beef and pork. If you're looking for a meatless option, consider using lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
How can I ensure the meat loaves stay moist?
To keep the meat loaves moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and consider adding a small amount of milk or broth to the mixture. Additionally, make sure not to overbake them; using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) can help achieve the perfect texture.
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).