Print

The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 6 reviews

This Ultimate Comfort Food recipe combines rich ground beef and Italian sausage with aromatic herbs and creamy mozzarella, baked to perfection for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Cheese

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)

Binding and Flavoring

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred, or plain with Italian seasoning added)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup milk

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and milk. Mix thoroughly but gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Season the Mixture: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Mix again to incorporate the herbs and seasoning uniformly throughout the mixture.
  3. Form Patties or Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into your desired form—either large meatloaf or individual patties. If making meatloaf, form the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. For patties, form evenly sized patties to ensure uniform cooking.
  4. Add Mozzarella Slices: Place slices of fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the formed meatloaf or on top of each patty. This will add a gooey, creamy texture as the cheese melts during cooking.
  5. Preheat and Cook: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf or patties before placing them in the oven. Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour, or the patties for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
  6. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the meatloaf or patties rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure moist, tender bites upon serving.

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Fresh mozzarella slices can be substituted with shredded mozzarella if preferred.
  • Adjust salt and pepper seasoning to taste, especially if your sausage is already heavily seasoned.
  • For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption of ground meats.
  • Letting the meat rest post-cooking enhances flavor and juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: comfort food, Italian meatloaf, mozzarella meatballs, ground beef recipe, Italian sausage recipe, baked meat dish

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/the-ultimate-comfort-food-recipe/