Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
1½ lbs lean ground beef
½ lb ground pork
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs
2 eggs
1 tsp ketchup
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1¼ tsp salt
1¼ tsp black pepper
Garlic powder (to taste—I use a generous amount!)
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Assembly (Do NOT mix into meatloaf):
2 slices of bread (heels work great!)
Ketchup (or tomato soup) for topping
Extra parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Instructions:
Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, bell pepper, onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, crushed garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Using clean hands, mix everything thoroughly until fully blended.
Prepare the Pan:
Place two bread slices (heels work best!) at the bottom of a loaf pan. (This absorbs grease and prevents burning.)
Press the meat mixture into the pan, shaping it into a loaf and filling the entire space.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 1 hour 10–15 minutes, then remove and drain excess grease.
Spread ketchup (or tomato soup) over the top and sprinkle with extra parmesan.
Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Serve:
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing (this helps it hold together).
Slice directly in the pan (don’t forget the bread at the bottom!) or invert onto a plate, remove bread, and serve.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful meatloaf! 😋🍽️
