Southern Meatloaf with Tomato Gravy

Introduction

Southern Meatloaf with Tomato Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This classic dish is made with ground beef seasoned with onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce, topped with a tangy and slightly sweet tomato sauce glaze. A family favorite, this recipe promises a meatloaf that is tender yet firm, bursting with flavor, and never soggy.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 ½ lb. ground beef (80/20 or 73/27)
• ¾ cup chopped yellow onion
• ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (traditional or Panko)
• 2 whole eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Spray oil for broiler pan

For the Tomato Gravy:

• 3 cups ketchup
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, breadcrumbs, lightly beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix the ingredients using clean hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Place the beef mixture onto a clean counter and shape it into a rectangular loaf.
   • Lightly oil a broiler pan (with slits) and place the loaf on it. The slotted pan helps drain the excess fat, preventing the meatloaf from becoming soggy.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Place the pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
5. Prepare the Tomato Gravy:
   • In a medium bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.
6. Glaze and Finish Baking:
   • Once the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 150°F, remove it from the oven. Pour some of the tomato gravy over the top and return it to the oven.
   • Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the gravy thickens to form a glaze.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra tomato gravy on the side and enjoy!

Conclusion

This Southern Meatloaf with Tomato Gravy is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings a taste of home-cooked comfort to any meal. The tender meatloaf, paired with the rich tomato gravy, creates a delicious combination that’s perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or even a classic meatloaf sandwich. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete, soul-warming meal. Enjoy this timeless Southern classic!

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