Pizza-Topped Meat Loaf
Preparation time: 10 to 15 minutes
Microwaving time: 18 to 20 minutes
Standing time: 3 to 5 minutes
Baked in a round or rectangular dish, this moist, herb-seasoned meat loaf is embellished with favorite pizza toppings.
2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 cup oat bran
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (15 oz.) pizza sauce
3/4 teaspoon each dry oregano leaves and dry basil
1/2 teaspoon each garlic salt and dry thyme leaves
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 can (2 1/4 oz.) sliced ripe olives, drained
4 to 6 large mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
In a large bowl, combine beef, oat bran, eggs, onion, 1/2 cup of the pizza sauce, oregano, basil, garlic salt, thyme, and pepper. Mix well, then pat into a round 2-quart or 7- by 11-inch microwave-safe baking dish.
Microwave, uncovered, on HIGH (100%) for 12 minutes, giving dish a half-turn every 4 minutes. Drain excess drippings from dish; spread remaining pizza sauce over top of meat loaf. Distribute olives and mushrooms over sauce, then evenly sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Microwave, uncovered, on HIGH (100%) for 6 to 8 minutes or until meat loaf is no longer pink in center; cut to test.
Let stand, covered, for 3 to 5 minutes. To serve, cut into wedges or squares. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
Per serving: 427 calories, 33 g protein, 9 g carbohydrates, 28 g total fat, 153 mg cholesterol, 692 mg sodium
