Ingredients
HERB SAUCE:1/4 cup olive oil8 ounces fresh mushrooms, chopped1 large onion, finely chopped1 garlic clove, minced1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste1 teaspoon salt1/8 teaspoon pepper2 teaspoons sugar1 cup water1 bay leaf2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basilMEAT LOAF:2 pounds ground beef or combination of ground beef, pork and veal1 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs3 tablespoons milk2 large eggs, beaten
Preparation
In a skillet, heat oil on high. Saute the mushrooms; onion and garlic. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper and sugar. Remove 1-1/2 cups. Add water, bay leaf and basil to skillet. Simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, combine all meat loaf ingredients with 1-1/2 cups reserved sauce. press into a 9x5-in. loaf pan lined with waxed paper. Unmold onto a roasting pan. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until no pink remains and a thermometer reads 160°. Remove from oven; drain. Spread 1/2 cup of herb sauce over top of meat loaf. Return to oven for 15 minutes. Discard bay leaf and serve remaining sauce over individual servings.
