A delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, infused with Italian flavors and topped with gooey cheese.
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, green bell pepper, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, and half of the marinara sauce. Mix until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
Use wet hands to prevent sticking while shaping.
Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the loaf.
This adds a flavorful glaze to the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Broil for a minute for a golden cheese crust.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.