Homestyle Glazed Meatloaf with Cheddar and Crackers

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Homestyle Glazed Meatloaf with Cheddar and Crackers

This recipe makes a generous loaf, perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers the next day in a sandwich. It’s hearty, simple, and incredibly satisfying—just what you need for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup)
  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
  • 2 large eggs, whisked
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup low-fat milk (or whole milk)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 for best results)

For the Glaze

  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 1½ tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Sauté the onion. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Mix the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, crushed crackers, cooled onions, cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the ground beef and mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Shape and bake. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press gently to form an even loaf. Bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
  6. Glaze and finish baking. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
  7. Rest before serving. Allow the meatloaf to rest in the pan for about 15 minutes. The internal temperature will continue to rise to 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meat stays juicy and flavorful. Slice and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

  • Don’t overmix the meat. Stir the ingredients just until they’re combined—overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
  • Use the right beef. An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio gives the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
  • Let it rest. Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps lock in the juices.
  • Customize it. Add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place slices in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also reheat single slices in the microwave.

What to Serve with Meatloaf

This classic comfort dish pairs beautifully with homestyle sides. Try serving it with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes
  • Buttered green beans or steamed broccoli
  • Roasted baby potatoes or glazed carrots
  • A crisp green salad for a lighter option

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients, all easy to find
  • Buttery, cheesy flavor with a perfectly sticky glaze
  • Moist, juicy texture every time
  • Ideal for family dinners or meal prep

Enjoy this Homestyle Glazed Meatloaf with Cheddar and Crackers for a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s old-fashioned, hearty, and made to be shared.

 

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