Easy Meatloaf with Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This easy meatloaf with spaghetti and tomato sauce is a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners. The meatloaf is flavorful and tender, paired beautifully with a rich, homemade tomato sauce and classic spaghetti.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing and drizzling
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 500g pork mince
• 1 large egg
• 75g fresh breadcrumbs
• 15 sage leaves, roughly chopped
• 100g feta, crumbled
• 3 bay leaves, 1 finely chopped
• 680g jar passata
• 600g spaghetti

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4) and grease an ovenproof dish with olive oil.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Remove half of the onions and place them in a large bowl.
3. Step 3: To the bowl with onions, add the pork mince, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped sage, crumbled feta, and finely chopped bay leaf. Season well with salt and pepper, then mix everything together thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Shape the mixture into a long sausage shape and transfer it to the greased ovenproof dish. Lay the remaining whole bay leaves on top, drizzle a little olive oil over, and bake for 40-45 minutes until cooked through.
5. Step 5: Meanwhile, keep the remaining onions in the frying pan on low heat for 2 minutes, then increase the heat to medium and pour in the passata and 70ml water. Let it bubble gently for 30 minutes, stirring often, so the sauce thickens and the flavors develop.
6. Step 6: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. When everything is ready, toss the spaghetti in the tomato sauce and serve with slices of the meatloaf.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce as it simmers.
• You can substitute pork mince with beef or a mix of beef and pork for a different taste.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sage or leave it out altogether.
• Feel free to add some grated Parmesan to the spaghetti before serving for an extra savory touch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatloaf and sauce gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Shape and bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Slice the cooled meatloaf and freeze the slices with some sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.