Cheese Stuffed Meat Loaf
(Serves 5 to 6)
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
2 teaspoons minced garlic or garlic powder
1/2 cup minced Italian parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 3/4 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/4 teaspoons cumin
3/4 cup salsa
2 whole eggs or 4 egg whites
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef or a mix of lean ground beef and ground turkey breast
3/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 pound sliced mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350º.
In a skillet, sauté the onion, celery, garlic, and parsley in the oil over moderate heat until softened but not browned. With a slotted spoon, transfer the vegetables to a large bowl.
Add all remaining ingredients, except cheese, to the vegetables. Mix well with your hands.
Transfer half the mixture to a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan. Place mozzarella slices on top, then cover with the rest of the meat mixture.
Bake for 75 to 80 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 170º.
