Italian Meatloaf With Parmesan

Ingredients:

• Meatloaf:
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 1 pound (450g) ground Italian sausage (or another ground meat of choice)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use almond flour for keto-friendly)
  • 1/4 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk for keto)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Topping:
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground sausage, eggs, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, parsley, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet, or press it evenly into the loaf pan.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
   Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes.
5. Add Topping:
   Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Finish Baking:
   Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.