Meatloaf (Beef with Cracker Barrel)

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is classic comfort food made with ground beef, onions, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, Ritz crackers and a sweet, savoury glaze on top. This copycat version is easy, delicious and a crowd-pleaser that feeds the whole family at a fraction of the price. Plus, the leftovers are just as good the next day.

Meatloaf:
½ Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
½ cup bell pepper, finely diced
2 lbs 80% lean ground beef
2 eggs, whisked
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup whole milk
1 tsp. sea salt
¼ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground

Topping:
½-¾ cup ketchup
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. mustard

Preheat an oven to 350°F (180°C/160°C fan, Gas Mark 4).

Sauté the onions adn diced peppers in a small pan with the olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This gives them a more subtle flavour and texture. Set aside and let cool.

Combined the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Add ground beef and mix until just combined. Don't overwork the meat, we want tender results.

Form it in a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. Not using a loaf pan can result in the loaf falling apart. It also takes much longer to cook, which causes it to dry out.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Combine the topping ingredients while it bakes and set aside.

Remove the meatloaf and brush on the topping. Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes. (Pull it once it reaches 155°F.)

Let it rest for 15 minutes in the loaf pan prior to slicing in. It will increase 8-10 degrees in temperature during this time. Slicing in too early also causes the juices to leak out. Ensure the middle is 160°F before you slice it.

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.

Makes 6 servings.

Cook's Notes:

• I like to use a 3-meat combination of ground beef, pork and veal- equal parts of each. Many grocery stores have this meat combination already packaged, specifically for making meatloaf and meatballs. Ask the grocer if they carry it. The results are super tender and flavourful.
• Some people like to place the meatloaf over a few slices of fresh bread, the bread acts as a sponge and soaks up any excess grease.