If you want a meatloaf that’s anything but ordinary, this Gourmet Meat Loaf brings bold Italian-inspired flavors to your dinner table. Layers of seasoned beef and Italian sausage are rolled around spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and plenty of gooey mozzarella, creating a juicy main dish that’s impressive yet easy to make. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, this hearty recipe turns a classic comfort food into something special you’ll want to make again.

Ingredients

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage

• 2 pounds ground chuck

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

• 1-1/4 cups dry bread crumbs

• 1 cup chopped Italian parsley

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup red wine

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon pepper

• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach

• 4 ounces oil-pack sun-dried tomatoes, drained

• 1/2 cup chopped black olives

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

To Prepare

Step 1: Remove the sausage from the casings and crumble.

Step 2: Combine with the ground chuck, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, parsley, eggs, tomato sauce, wine, oregano, salt and pepper in a bowl; mix well.

Step 3: Spread into a 12x15-inch rectangle on a large sheet of waxed paper.

Step 4: Spread the spinach on the rectangle, leaving the edges uncovered.

Step 5: Top with the tomatoes and olives; layer 3/4 of the cheese over the filling.

Step 6: Roll the meat loaf to enclose the filling, using the waxed paper to begin the roll.

Step 7: Remove the waxed paper; press the edges to seal.

Step 8: Place seam side down in a foil-lined baking pan.

Step 9: Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until cooked through.

Step 10: Top with the remaining cheese. Bake just until the cheese melts. Serve hot or cold.

SERVES: 8

This Gourmet Meat Loaf is a flavorful twist on a classic, with layers of veggies and melty cheese that make every slice special. Serve it with your favorite sides for a dinner that’s both comforting and impressive. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to elevate a simple meatloaf into something memorable.