Vintage on line

And now we come to the meat loaf. This is a recipe I've never shared before. You see, I have it in my mind that one day I will write a book that will not strictly be a cookbook, but more of a lifestyle book with recipes in it. This is one of those recipes. So. If I share it with you now, will you promise to buy the book anyway? Also, don't tell anyone. We will just keep this top secret recipe between you and me.

Jen's Italian Meatloaf

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (I use a fairly lean beef)

1 pound mild Italian sausage

4 slices bread, edges removed and ground into bread crumbs in the food processor

3 cloves garlic, minced (I just throw it into the food processor with the bread)

1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for top of meatloaf)

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tsp kosher salt

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

2 tsp Italian seasoning

3 eggs, lightly beaten

3-4 slices pancetta or bacon

Water

In a large bowl mix together all ingredients except water and pancetta and mix with a fork until well blended. Do not over mix. Add enough water to moisten mixture. Form into a loaf on a cookie sheet with sides. I shape mine about 2 inches high and rather wide. Cover top of loaf with pancetta or bacon and bake for 45 minutes or until cooked through. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top about 10 minutes before it's finished. I sometimes like to broil it for a few minutes at the end because I love to get that crispy crust on there.

I hope you guys enjoy the recipe. Let me know if you make it.

So that's it for the Q & A today. Let me know if you have any more burning questions like...what size shoes do I wear or what time do I get up in the morning. I'm an open book people!