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
Optional for Topping:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf is ready to go as soon as the preparation is complete.
Step 2: Prepare the Cracker Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 eggs and 2/3 cup milk. Whisk them together until well mixed. Then, add the crushed Ritz crackers to the bowl. These crackers will provide a light, airy texture and absorb the juices, keeping the meatloaf moist. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the crackers are fully soaked in the egg and milk mixture.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Onions
Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the mixture. The onions will add a subtle sweetness and crunch, while the cheese contributes a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the meat. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Ground Meat
Next, add your choice of ground meat. Typically, ground beef is used, but you can also use a mixture of beef and pork for a richer taste. Use about 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground meat. Mix it into the cracker mixture, but be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 5: Season the Mixture
Season the meat mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, depending on your preferences. If you’d like, you can also add black pepper, garlic powder, or other spices to give the meatloaf a little extra flavor.
Step 6: Form the Meatloaf
Once the meat mixture is ready, transfer it to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat, pressing it down slightly to remove any air pockets. This helps ensure that the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Step 7: Add Topping (Optional)
For a traditional touch, combine 1/4 cup of ketchup and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed, and then spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf. This sweet and tangy glaze will give your meatloaf a beautiful, flavorful crust.
Step 8: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Check the meatloaf halfway through baking, and if needed, cover it loosely with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Once your meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice. After resting, slice it into thick portions and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a simple salad.
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly comforting and delicious. With a perfect balance of savory flavors from the ground meat, crackers, and cheddar cheese, it’s bound to become a family favorite. The optional glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes each bite even more satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this meatloaf is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that everyone will love!