Ingredients
1 large onion, finely chopped1 celery rib, chopped1 tablespoon olive oil2 garlic cloves, minced2 eggs, lightly beaten1/3 cup ketchup3/4 cup soft bread crumbs1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon pepper1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg2 pounds ground beefBAKED TOMATO SAUCE:1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained1 tablespoon olive oil2 garlic cloves, minced1/4 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Preparation
In a large skillet, saute onion and celery in oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Cool to room temperature.
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, ketchup, bread crumbs, parsley, salt, pepper, nutmeg and onion mixture. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well.
Shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 1 to 1-1/4 hours or until no pink remains and a thermometer reads 160°.
Meanwhile, combine sauce ingredients in an ungreased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 1 hour or until thickened, stirring occasionally. Let meat loaf stand for 10 minutes before slicing; serve with tomato sauce.
