Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a savory and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and Ritz crackers, topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner, providing a delightful blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 32 Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add milk and crushed Ritz crackers, stirring to combine.
• Stir in the chopped onion and shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
• Add the ground beef to the mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.

1. Shape and Bake:

• Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

1. Prepare the Topping:

• While the meatloaf is baking, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl to make the topping.

1. Apply the Topping:

• After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon half of the topping mixture over it.
• Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
• Spoon the remaining topping over the meatloaf and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the topping is caramelized.

1. Serve:

• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm, and enjoy!

Tips:

• Consistency: For a more uniform texture, ensure the crackers are crushed finely before adding them to the mixture.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Baking Dish: Use a loaf pan for a more traditional meatloaf shape, or a larger baking dish if you prefer a flatter loaf.
• Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to allow the juices to redistribute.

Enjoy the comforting, classic flavors of this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, perfect for a cozy family meal!