• 2 slices white sandwich bread, torn into small pieces
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 large egg
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 15.5-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Heat oven to 400° F. In a large bowl, combine the bread and 3 tablespoons water. Add the lamb, egg, half the garlic, half the thyme, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Place the mixture on a foil-lined baking sheet and shape into a 6-inch loaf (about 3 inches thick). Bake, brushing with the balsamic vinegar several times during cooking, until a thermometer inserted in the center registers 150° F, 30 to 35 minutes. Let rest at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and the remaining garlic and thyme and cook, tossing occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the beans, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes; stir in the lemon juice. Serve with the meat loaf.