Italian Stuffed Meatloaf

                                Prep Time : 20 mintues ....Cook Time 45 minutes

*    2 pounds ground beef 

*    2 eggs

*    1 cup bread crumbs ( up to 1  1/2 cups)

*    1 cup  grated parmesan cheese

*    1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

*    1 tablespoon black pepper

*    2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley leaves

*    2 cloves garlic , minced or pressed

*    1 medium onion , diced

*    1/2 cup ketchup

*    1/4 cup worcestenshire savce

*    1 cup milk

*    8 slices chedder

*    8 slices baked ham

*    8 slices bacon   ( optional : turkey bacon)

Directions :

In a large bowl , combine ground beef , eggs , breadcrumbs , parmesan , herbs , garlic , onion and ketchup and worcestershire . Mix well , gradually adding the milk  (if it seems to moist , add bread crumbs unti it is consistency that will form a loaf without flattening  ) spray a large baking or roasting pan with a nonstick spray and press the meatloaf out . Layer cheese slices and ham , covering the center line of the meatloaf , then close it together  and tuck the ends , forming a loaf which is oblong . Criss-cross the bacon strips to cover the loaf . Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until  an instant thermometer registers 160 degrees *F .

Let rest 15 minutes , then cut and serve  ...gravy is optional

Tip : Salad  , toasted french garlic bread  ...  with the dessert below and everything is ready... a glass of wine for the grown-ups and grape juice for the kiddies .