Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add the breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and uniform in texture. - Shape the Loaf:
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s compact but not too tight, so it cooks evenly. - Add the Ketchup:
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf, giving it a nice glaze and a bit of extra flavor. - Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake it for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). - Prepare the Tomato Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, make the tomato gravy. In a medium saucepan, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook it for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. - Make the Gravy:
Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously until the gravy begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes. - Serve:
Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve each slice with a generous amount of tomato gravy drizzled over the top.
Variations & Tips:
- Meat Mixture: You can swap the ground pork for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter version. Alternatively, use all beef for a more traditional flavor.
- Gravy: For a spicier twist, you can add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato gravy or stir in some hot sauce for a kick.
- Add Veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, try adding finely chopped carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture. It’ll boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture in the meatloaf.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes or cornbread on the side for that full Southern feel. A simple side of green beans or collard greens is perfect to balance the rich flavors of the meatloaf and gravy.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of ground beef and pork makes for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf, while the ketchup adds a tangy sweetness to the top. The tomato gravy is the star of the dish, bringing everything together with its smooth texture and rich, savory taste. This meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
