Step 1

To make the sauce, heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and lightly grease a broiler-safe 9x13-inch pan.

Step 3

Place saltines in a large ziptop bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Step 4

Stir together the saltines, milk, and eggs in a large bowl. Let sit 5 minutes. Stir again so that it forms a paste.

Step 5

Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT fontina cheese and basil. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6

Transfer mixture to prepared dish and shape into a 9x5-inch oval. Pour sauce over meatloaf.

Step 7

Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 8

Uncover and sprinkle with fontina. Place under broiler until cheese is melted. Let rest 10 minutes. Spoon off any grease from tomato sauce. Slice meatloaf and sprinkle with basil.