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Cheesy Meatloaf

Copied after Cracker Barrels Meatloaf
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1/2 tsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper finely diced
  • 2 lbs 80% lean ground beef
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 eggs whisked
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • salt and pepper

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat oven 350º F.
  • Sauté the diced peppers and onions in a small pan with the olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This gives them a more subtle flavor and texture. Set aside and let cool.
  • Combined the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, and salt/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 155º 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 160º F before you slice it.