EASY MADE ITALIAN MEATLOAF

This Easy Italian Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining ground beef and Italian sausage with aromatic herbs, spices, and cheeses. The addition of sautéed onions and bell peppers adds a pop of color and savory depth to the dish. Topped with marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple to prepare and bakes up beautifully, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef and mild Italian sausage form the hearty base of this meatloaf.
• Aromatic ingredients such as onion, bell pepper, and garlic add depth of flavor.
• Herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and parsley infuse the meatloaf with classic Italian seasoning.
• Binders like beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, and crumbled white bread soaked in milk help hold the meatloaf together.
• Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provide richness and gooey texture.
• Marinara sauce adds moisture and enhances the Italian flavors of the meatloaf.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened and aromatic.
2. In a large bowl, combine the meats, sautéed vegetables, herbs, spices, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, soaked bread, and cheese (reserving some mozzarella for topping).
3. Mix everything together using your hands until well combined.
4. Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
5. Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake in a preheated oven until cooked through.
7. Top with reserved mozzarella cheese and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
8. Let the meatloaf rest briefly before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for added flavor and richness.
• Sautéing the onions and bell peppers before adding them to the meatloaf mixture enhances their flavor and ensures they are fully cooked.
• Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can result in a dense texture. Mix just until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Choose a baking dish that allows the meatloaf to cook evenly and retains its shape.
• Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.