italmeat

Submitted by: Jennifer Murawski
November 2001

Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs. Ground Hamburger
1/4 C Chopped Green Pepper
1/2 C Chopped Onion
1/2 C Plain Breadcrumbs
1 Egg
1 tsp Oregano
1 tsp Parsley
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 t Basil
1/2 t salt
dash pepper
2 Tbsp Milk
8 oz. Tomato Sauce

Either 3 pieces of string cheese or 3/4 C shredded mozzarella
1 14 1/2 oz. Can of diced (Basil/Garlic/Oregano) Tomatoes

Directions:
Place the first 13 ingredients ingredients in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly (use hands). Take 1/2 of the mixture and press into a loaf pan. Take the string cheese & cut in half. Place onto mixture, leaving a 1 inch gap all around (to seal). If using shredded cheese, place in center of loaf, leaving edges clean. Place the rest of mixture on top, pressing down well & sealing edges.

Bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove and add a can of diced tomatoes on top. Bake for an additional 40 minutes. If desired, place more shredded cheese on top during last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove & let sit for a few minutes before cutting.

Freezer Note:
Double the recipe, and freeze a second loaf (raw) to cook later. Easiest way: Place saran wrap in loaf pan, make meat loaf as directed, wrap in saran wrap, freeze, then it pops right out of loaf pan, and wrap in tin foil for future use. Unwrap when ready to use, thaw completely and cook as directed.

Other Uses:
Could make meatballs from this mixture for meatball subs, spaghetti, etc. You could cook these in advance, freeze fully cooked, and pop them into jarred sauce. The possibilities are endless!