SPICY MEATLOAF PANINI

Prep Time: 1 ½ Hours
Yields: 6-8 Servings

Comment:
This wonderful flavorful meatloaf is terrific on its own, but sliced on a panini with melted provolone, it’s heaven.  You can make the meatloaf ahead of time and slice it for paninis before the big game or at half time.

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
6 eggs
1 cup minced onions
1 cup minced celery
¼ cup minced garlic
¼ cup chopped basil
1¾ cup Italian bread crumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsps salt
2 tbsps black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
1 small jar of your favorite marinara or pasta sauce
1 loaf of sliced Ciabatta or French bread
8 slices of provolone cheese

Method:
Preheat oven to 350º F. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef and pork. Using your hands, blend meat well. Add eggs, onions, celery, garlic, basil, breadcrumbs and cheese. Continue to blend, then season with salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Fry a small patty of meat mixture in a sprinkle of olive oil to test for seasoning. Adjust seasonings if necessary. Shape meat into a loaf and place in a 9 x 13 inch-baking pan. Top with sauce. Cover and cook 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160º F. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Heat grill according to manufacturing instructions. Cut meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices. Place 1 meatloaf slice on each slice of bread and top with cheese and a spoon or two of sauce. Place on grill and heat thoroughly.  Serve with favorite chips. Meatloaf slices may also be served with cooked pasta.