Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
To make this rich and cheesy meatloaf, you will need:
Meatloaf
2 large eggs
⅔ cup milk
32 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup chopped onion
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ lbs ground beef
Glaze (Topping)
½ cup ketchup
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Crush the Crackers – Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-lock bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Alternatively, pulse them in a food processor.
Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add milk and whisk together until fully combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Stir in the crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed.
Add Ground Beef – Gently fold the ground beef into the mixture, using your hands or a spatula. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing, as it can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Shape the Meatloaf – Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a firm, even loaf to ensure even cooking.
Bake the Meatloaf – Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze and Apply
Make the Glaze – While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by combining ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Mix until smooth.
First Glaze Layer – After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven and spoon half of the glaze evenly over the top.
Continue Baking – Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
Final Glaze Layer – Spoon the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the glaze caramelizes slightly.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Rest the Meatloaf – Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.
Slice and Serve – Cut into thick slices and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
For a Spicy Twist – Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze.
Make it Extra Cheesy – Stuff the center of the meatloaf with additional shredded cheddar for a gooey surprise.
Swap the Crackers – Use buttery Club crackers or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Lean Option – Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter.
This Cheddar Ritz Cracker Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, buttery crackers, sharp cheddar, and a tangy-sweet glaze. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe that fits into any busy schedule while still delivering rich, homemade flavor.
Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a Sunday family meal, or even meal prep leftovers, this meatloaf will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy, tender bite!
