Italian Stuffed Meatloaf

Meatloaf

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped

1 lb. ground beef

1 lb. ground pork

1/2 cup moistened Italian seasoned bread crumbs 

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Filling

2 olive oil

6 button sliced mushrooms

2 tablespoons of sliced pimentos

2 tbsp each chopped fresh basil, rosemary and Italian parsley

Salt and  pepper to taste

Mozzarella cheese slices

Topping

1 jar of marinara sauce

Grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Filling

Heat oil in a frying pan.  Add mushrooms and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned.  Remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl using a slotted spoon. Add fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.

Meatloaf

Discard any mushroom juices from the frying pan and add the oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until lightly colored, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a mixing bowl and let cool.

With your hands, mix the eggs, meats and moistened bread crumbs (add 2 tablespoon of water to the crumbs while in the measuring cup to moistened). Season well with salt and pepper.

Lightly oil a large loaf pan. Place half the meatloaf into the pan and pat into shape, forming a hollowed out section for the filling. Spread mushroom and herb filling into the hollowed out section and cover with mozzarella slices. Carefully pat the remaining meatloaf over the top. Press down lightly to seal it fully.

Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and drain off any grease and  pour marinara sauce  over it. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. Once baked, allow the meatloaf  to stand for 10 minutes  before cutting into.

Variation - You may add other fillings if you like.  How about stuffed olives, capers, or bacon.  If you use stuffed olives, you do not need to add the pimentos since it is already in the olives.  

Surprise your family with a new stuffed meatloaf.  It will make them and you happy.

Tomorrow Salisbury steak.  May God bless you and yours.