Shelly's Recipe

ITALIAN MEATLOAF PARMIGIANA

Category: Marinades

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 red pepper, seeded, small diced
1 onion, diced
2 teaspoons (about 3 cloves) chopped garlic
1/2 pound ground beef (80/20)
1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage
2 eggs
3/4 cup bread crumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped basil leaves
1 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce (jarred or homemade); divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat and add the peppers, onions and garlic. Saute until just soft, remove to a plate and cool. When the peppers and onions are cool, combine all of the remaining ingredients together except for the marinara and shredded cheese.

Form large patties from the meat mixture and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Top with 1 cup of the marinara making sure to spread evenly over the top. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes to ensure it's cooked through.

Remove from the oven and top with shredded cheese; return to oven for 5 minutes to allow cheese to melt. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve on top of your favorite pasta and with the remaining marinara on the side.