When you need a dependable, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table, Meatloaf or Hamburger Patties with Tomato Sauce is the answer. This versatile recipe lets you prepare the same savory meat mixture as either a tender baked meatloaf or juicy pan-seared hamburger patties, all simmered or topped with a rich, homemade tomato sauce.
One recipe—two comforting dinner options.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
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One meat mixture, two formats (meatloaf or patties)
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Moist, tender texture with classic seasoning
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Sweet-savory tomato sauce balances the beef
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Budget-friendly and family-approved
Perfect for weeknights, Sunday dinners, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Meat Mixture
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1½ lb (680 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
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1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
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1 large egg
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½ cup milk
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
Tomato Sauce
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1 cup tomato sauce
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¼ cup ketchup
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions – Choose Your Style
Option 1: Classic Meatloaf
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine all meat mixture ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
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Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish or loaf pan.
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Mix tomato sauce ingredients and spread half over the meatloaf.
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Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
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Spread remaining sauce on top and bake 15–20 minutes more until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Option 2: Hamburger Patties with Tomato Sauce
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Form meat mixture into 5–6 oval patties.
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Brown patties 3–4 minutes per side.
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Pour tomato sauce mixture into skillet.
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Cover and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until patties are tender and cooked through.
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Spoon sauce over patties before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results
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Don’t overmix the meat—keeps it tender
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Milk + breadcrumbs prevent dryness
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Low simmer keeps patties juicy
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Rest meatloaf for clean slices
Flavor Variations
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Italian-Style: Add oregano and basil
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Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
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Country-Style: Serve with mashed potatoes
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Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella
What to Serve With This Dish
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttered green beans
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Steamed rice
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Roasted carrots
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Dinner rolls or biscuits
Storage & Make-Ahead
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Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
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Freeze: Meatloaf or patties freeze well up to 3 months
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Reheat: Gently with extra sauce to prevent drying
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes—add extra milk or oil for moisture.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very! The tomato sauce is mildly sweet and comforting.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Meatloaf or Hamburger Patties with Tomato Sauce is a timeless, flexible recipe that brings classic comfort to the table. Whether baked as a hearty loaf or simmered as juicy patties, it’s a dish that always feels like home.
- 1 1/2 lbs. Laura's lean beef
- 1/4 c. chopped onion
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 c. Grape Nuts
- 1 sm. can tomato sauce
- Salt & pepper as desired
- 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 15 oz. can tomato sauce
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