Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground mild Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 C chopped bell pepper (optional)
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp parsley
1 egg, beaten
3/4 C Italian bread crumbs
2 slices white bread, crumbled
1 Tbsp milk
8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded. Reserve 3/4 C for topping
1/4 C Parmesan cheese
1 3/4 C marinara sauce, split 1 C and 3/4 C, for topping (Pizza or marinara)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 F degrees.
In a small skillet, heat olive oil over med. high heat and sauté onion and bell pepper (if using) for 3-4 minutes, remove from heat.
In a large bowl, add the meats, onion, and peppers, along with all remaining ingredients, reserving 3/4 C mozzarella cheese for topping.
Combine well. Place and mold the mixture in a baking dish of your choice.
Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 C marinara sauce on top and spread evenly.
Bake for 50 minutes. Remove from oven and top with remaining cheese and sprinkle a little dry basil over the top. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes.
Make sure the meat is thoroughly cooked before serving. Baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your loaf.
