FOUR STAR CHEDDAR MEAT LOAF

3 lbs lean ground beef
2 (8 oz each) cans tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 eggs, beaten
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 to 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (or to taste)
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
4 slices American cheese (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine all ingredients except sliced cheese. Pack into a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Bake for approximately 1 1/2 hours.

If topping with cheese slices, remove meat loaf from oven and raise oven temperature to 400 degrees F.

Let meat loaf stand 5 minutes and place the cheese slices on top. Return just long enough for cheese to melt.

Servings: 8