Italian Sausage and Pepper Ring Mini Meatloaves

 Italian Sausage and Pepper Ring Mini Meatloaves

Ingredients:

1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)

1/2 lb ground beef or turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)

1 egg

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (any color), sliced into rings

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for greasing

Optional garnish: fresh parsley or additional Parmesan

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Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Meat Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine Italian sausage, ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped onion, tomato paste, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined (do not overmix).

3. Shape Mini Meatloaves:

Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it into a small loaf. Press the loaf into the center of a bell pepper ring, filling it completely. Repeat for all slices of bell pepper and meat mixture.

4. Bake:

Arrange the stuffed pepper rings on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).

5. Optional Topping:

In the last 5 minutes of baking, you can top each mini meatloaf with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of marinara sauce for extra flavor.

6. Serve:

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan if desired.

Serve with a side of pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.

En

joy this fun, flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf with an Italian flair!