Meatloaf with Tomato Sauce
Lower sodium version of an old favorite. I left out 2.5 teaspoons of salt!
Lower sodium version of an old favorite. I left out 2.5 teaspoons of salt!
- Carbohydrate 23.4534450839065 g
- Cholesterol 139.416952901268 mg
- Fat 19.6611501254121 g
- Fiber 0.968621288223565 g
- Protein 28.0787585211583 g
- Saturated Fat 7.57652550628649 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (184g)
- Sodium 475.316436888405 mg
- Sugar 22.4848237956829 g
- Trans Fat 2.81119114602293 g
- Calories 389 calories
Step-by-step
- Blend bread into ground beef, along with the black pepper.
- Set aside 2 tablespoons of the onion and blend the rest into the meat mixture with the eggs and milk.
- Shape meat into a loaf pan or on the center of a lightly greased shallow baking pan.
- Make the sauce by mixing together the tomato sauce, the 2 tablespoons of onion, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and sugar.
- Pour sauce over meatloaf and bake, uncovered, in a 375 degree oven about 45 minutes.
My Family's Favorite Low-Sodium Meatloaf
As a busy mom of three, I'm always looking for quick, easy, and healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes often pack a hefty sodium punch. That’s why I tweaked an old family recipe to create this lower-sodium version, and trust me, nobody even noticed the difference! The secret is simply reducing the salt and letting the rich flavors of the beef, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce shine through. This meatloaf is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad – it pairs beautifully with almost anything.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s a one-pan wonder, requiring minimal cleanup, which is a huge win on busy weeknights. The prep time is incredibly short, and the baking time is perfectly manageable, allowing you to get other things done while the meatloaf is simmering in the oven. And the aroma that fills your kitchen while it's baking? Pure comfort food heaven! This isn't just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The best part? My kids actually ask for seconds!
I've been making this meatloaf for years now, and it's consistently a crowd-pleaser. It’s become a staple in our family's weekly meal rotation, and it’s saved me countless hours in the kitchen. I've experimented with different variations over time – sometimes adding mushrooms for extra earthiness, or swapping out the tomato sauce for a homemade version. The possibilities are truly endless! But the basic recipe remains the same, a testament to its simplicity and deliciousness. I encourage you to try it for yourself and become the hero of your next family dinner!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a blend of ground beef and ground pork.
- Add some veggies: Finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add extra nutrients and moisture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it ahead: This meatloaf can be made a day or two in advance and reheated. The flavor actually intensifies!
- Customize your toppings: Get creative with your sides! Mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
This recipe has become more than just a meal; it's a family tradition. It represents warmth, togetherness, and the simple joys of a home-cooked meal. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
