Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe CaféSouthern Meatloaf Recipe

Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Inspired by The Café
Time1h 40m
Serves6

Slow-cooked with caramelized onions and fresh herbs, and topped with house tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

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Meatloaf Mixture

Tomato Sauce Topping

Method

Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. 1

    Sauté Onions

    In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  2. 2

    Mix Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

  3. 3

    Shape the Meatloaf

    Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Make sure it is evenly shaped.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce

  1. 4

    Combine Sauce Ingredients

    In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  2. 5

    Top the Meatloaf

    Spread the prepared tomato sauce over the top of the shaped meatloaf, ensuring an even coating.

Cooking

  1. 6

    Slow Cook the Meatloaf

    Cover the meatloaf with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C). Bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

  2. 7

    Rest and Serve

    Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

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