Go Back

Meatloaf Recipe With Crackers

This comforting meatloaf, made with ground beef and crushed crackers, is a nostalgic dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 lbs ground beef or ground turkey Juicy and hearty, these meats serve as the foundation for your meatloaf.
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed) Their crispy texture brings a delightful crunch.
  • 1 large egg (beaten) Acts as a binder for the meatloaf.
  • 1 cup milk Enhances flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist.
  • 1/2 cup ketchup Adds a dynamic flavor and glaze.
  • 1/3 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tbsp dried minced onion) Brings depth and fragrance.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for elevating flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Rounds out the flavor.
Glaze ingredients
  • 3/4 cup ketchup Makes the top irresistibly sticky.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Compliments the savoriness of the meat.
  • 1/4 cup apricot preserves Adds a unique layer of flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Provides an umami punch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Coat a 5x9 loaf pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), crushed crackers, beaten egg, milk, 1/2 cup of ketchup, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake uncovered for 1.5 hours.
  3. While baking, combine 3/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, apricot preserves, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to create the glaze.
  4. Halfway through baking, spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
  5. Once baked, let your meatloaf sit for 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs for a unique twist. Try different fruit preserves or barbecue sauce for the glaze.