Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring 80/20 ground beef mixed with sautéed onions, green bell pepper, sharp cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers, which add a unique moist texture and taste. Topped with a tangy glaze made of ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard, this meatloaf is perfect for a hearty family dinner that slices beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper finely diced
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 large eggs whisked
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes, then let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add ground beef and cooled onion/bell pepper mixture; gently mix until evenly combined.
- Form mixture into a loaf shape in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Remove meatloaf from oven, brush glaze evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Using Ritz crackers is key to getting the signature moist texture.
- Letting the sautéed vegetables cool before mixing prevents the meat from becoming tough.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps juices redistribute and makes slicing neater.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
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