Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of ground beef (lean)
– 1 small onion (finely diced)
– 1/2 cup bell pepper (finely diced, optional)
– 1 1/2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers (48 crackers in total)
– 4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
– 3 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
– 1/2 to 3/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon mustard
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Set this aside, as it will be used later as the topping.
3. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, finely diced onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until combined.
4. Add the ground beef to the mixture and gently mix it in. Be careful not to overmix the meatloaf.
5. Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it inside a baking pan or on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
6. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the prepared topping over it.
8. Put the meatloaf back in the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the center reaches a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
9. Once it’s done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy your delicious Cracker Barrel Meatloaf!
