Description
This classic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe combines lean ground beef with crunchy Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful ketchup glaze for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 48 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatloaf.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Mix well and set aside to be used later as a flavorful glaze topping.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, milk, finely diced onion, optional bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Incorporate Ground Beef: Gently fold the ground beef into the mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form and Bake Initial Phase: Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan, shaping it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to start cooking through.
- Add Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the prepared glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes for easier, cleaner slices when serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture as it can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Using lean ground beef helps keep the meatloaf healthier and less greasy.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures juicier slices.
- The glaze can be adjusted according to your preferred sweetness or tanginess by modifying the amount of brown sugar or mustard.
- If you prefer, substitute the bell pepper with finely diced green chilies for a spicier flavor.