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Ritz Cracker Meatloaf

Ritz Cracker Meatloaf: Comforting Flavor That Delights

Enjoy this Ritz Cracker Meatloaf, a moist and tender twist on a classic favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing vegetables; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 small yellow onion (diced) Adds a touch of sweetness; shallots work well for a milder flavor.
  • ½ cup bell pepper (diced) Enhances sweetness and color; any color will do!
  • 2 large cloves garlic (minced) Increases depth of flavor; fresh or powdered garlic can be used.
  • 2 lbs 80/20 lean ground beef Provides flavor and juiciness; try ground turkey or pork for a lighter option.
  • 1 ½ cups crushed Ritz crackers Acts as a binder and adds a buttery flavor; breadcrumbs can be a substitute but may require moisture adjustments.
  • ¾ cup milk Adds moisture for a tender loaf; dairy-free milk can work, too.
  • 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients together; flax eggs make a great vegan alternative.
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher salt Enhances flavors; you can use table salt but reduce slightly.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of heat; white pepper works as a milder alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For an additional garlic kick; feel free to omit if using fresh garlic.
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley Provides herbal notes; substitute with fresh parsley for a brighter flavor.
For the Glaze
  • ¾ cup ketchup The base for the glaze, giving tanginess; barbecue sauce is a delicious alternative.
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar Adds sweetness to balance acidity; honey or maple syrup can provide a different flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Boosts umami flavor; for gluten-free options, use soy sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard Contributes tanginess; any mustard type, like yellow, works beautifully.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ritz Cracker Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for cleanup.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until soft, about 5-6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Let cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with crushed Ritz crackers, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley, and the cooled vegetable mixture. Mix until just combined.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet, approximately 9x5 inches, and bake for 35 minutes until slightly browned.
  5. Prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
  6. After 35 minutes, pour the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  7. Remove from the oven, let rest for 10-15 minutes, slice, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

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