Italian Style Meatloaf

Meatloaf is an ultimate comfort food that is cooked differently in each household. It is best eaten with salad or steamed vegetables. I personally think that it is a hit for both the young and old. It is perfect for family dinners and leftovers can be refrigerated and saved for the next meal.

 

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef

2 eggs, beaten

3/4 cup dry bread crumbs

1/4 cup ketchup

1 teaspoon Italian-style seasoning

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Preheat oven to 350F.

In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic and onions for 3-5 minutes or until the onions are translucent. Remove from flame and let it cool.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, ketchup, sautéed onions and garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil and mozzarella. Season it with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Place the meat mixture in a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Pack well. Cover loosely with foil. Bake it for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160 F or until the meatloaf is set and the outside is brown. You can also pierce the meatloaf with a toothpick and when it comes out clean it is ready.

Heat the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes in the same skillet where you sautéed the garlic and onions. Season it with salt and pepper.

Transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter and pour the tomato sauce on it. Slice and serve with salad or vegetables.

After the meal enjoy a nice cup of Green Mountain Coffee.

Photo Courtesy Of: pinotshop