Applesauce Meatloaf

The name doesn't sound that great, but this is the best meatloaf recipe I've tasted. Being a First Place weight loss recipe makes it even better!

2 lbs. lean ground meat (Beef or turkey would be good.)
1 c. unsweetened applesauce
1 onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, finely diced
6 slices whole grain bread, crumbled
1 egg
2 tsp. salt
pepper to taste
1/2 c. tomato sauce, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine all ingredients, kneading mixture with hands until well blended. Pack into loaf pan and top with tomato sauce, if desired. Bake for 2 hours.

*If you don't have whole grain bread, you can substitute an equivalent amount of crumbled whole wheat crackers.

*If you're pressed for time, you can pack the meat mixture into a 9x9 baking pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

*For a slow cooker, pack meat mixture into the bottom of the pot, cover, and cook on HIGH for one hour. Reduce heat to LOW and cook for another 6-8 hours. Lift from pot, slice, and serve.