Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef, lean
• 1 onion, small, finely diced
• Optional: 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 1/2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, crushed (equates to 48 crackers)
• 4 oz. of sharp cheddar or Colby cheese, finely shredded
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of whole milk
• Seasoning: 1 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 – 3/4 cup of ketchup
• 2 tbsp. of brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp. of classic yellow mustard

Preparation

Warm up your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. As it heats, create the glaze in a small bowl by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Set aside for later use.

Grab a larger bowl. Here, beat together the eggs, then blend in crushed Ritz crackers, your cheese of choice, milk, finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper (if you’re using it), and the salt and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are uniformly mixed.

Gradually introduce the ground beef into the mixture. Ensure it is well incorporated but be careful not to overmix.

Shape this hearty blend into a loaf form and place it in a foil or parchment paper-lined baking dish.

Cook in the preheated oven for half an hour. Then, take the dish out and glaze your meatloaf with the earlier prepared topping. Make sure it’s covered uniformly.

Place the meatloaf back in the oven, baking for another 30 to 40 minutes. To check doneness, the meatloaf’s internal temperature should read 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 15 minutes after baking, then cut into slices and serve warm. Indulge in the taste of a classic!