Italian Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 red pepper, seeded, small diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons (about 3 cloves) chopped garlic
• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) bread crumbs
• 1 cup (240 ml) grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped parsley leaves
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
• 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
2. Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of the olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat, then add the peppers, onions, and garlic. Saute until just soft, then remove to a plate to cool.
3. When the peppers and onions are cool, combine all of the remaining ingredients except for the marinara.
4. Pack the meat mixture into an oiled loaf pan. If you do not have a loaf pan, form the mixture into a loaf shape on an oiled oven tray or baking dish.
5. Top with the marinara, making sure to spread it evenly over the top.
6. Bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 160 degrees F (70°C) in the middle of the meatloaf.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve.