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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
Saute the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, beaten egg, bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, milk, sautéed vegetables, shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve some for topping), and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon.
Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the reserved shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the Italian meatloaf and serve it warm, topped with additional marinara sauce if desired. Enjoy the flavorful blend of herbs, cheese, and savory meats!
Cook Notes and Variations:
Fresh Herbs: Feel free to use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Simply adjust the quantities to your taste preferences.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with plant-based alternatives such as lentils, mushrooms, or tofu crumbles.
Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and marinara sauce are gluten-free.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
Keto Version: Substitute the bread crumbs and white bread with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Use sugar-free marinara sauce or make your own keto-friendly tomato sauce. Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
Low Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, use low-carb breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. Ensure that all other ingredients are low in carbohydrates and sugar.
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