Description
A classic Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf featuring a savory blend of ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, Ritz crackers, and cheddar cheese. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, this meatloaf is baked to juicy perfection and makes a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1 Tablespoon oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350º F. If using a baking sheet, line it with foil to make cleanup easier. If using a traditional loaf pan, line it with parchment paper so you can lift out the meatloaf easily and drain any grease before slicing.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil, swirling to coat the pan. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers are soft. Let the mixture cool slightly before using.
- Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients until evenly combined.
- Shape and bake meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl to create the glaze.
- Glaze and continue baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes and evenly spread the glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
- Rest the meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. If using parchment paper, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the pan to allow any excess grease to drain back into the pan.
- Slice and serve: Slice the meatloaf into portions and serve warm for a comforting, hearty meal.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ground beef with a balanced fat content to keep the meatloaf moist.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.
- The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish—feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste.
- You can substitute crushed saltine crackers for Ritz crackers if preferred.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 155º F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: meatloaf, Cracker Barrel, ground beef, baked meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, savory glaze
