Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced (orange or any color)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 slices white bread, torn into pieces
- 1 Tbsp milk
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese, reserve 3/4 cup
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce, plus 1/2-3/4 cup for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, sautéed onions and peppers, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, torn bread, milk, and 1/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish or a loaf pan. Spread 1/2 to 3/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the reserved 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top, and garnish with a sprinkle of dried basil. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side. Enjoy this cheesy, flavorful Parmesan meatloaf as a hearty and satisfying meal!
