Ingredients
Meatloaf2 pounds lean ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
½ cup finely diced bell pepper (optional, but traditional)
1½ sleeves Ritz crackers,
crushed (about 48 crackers)
4 large eggs
¾ cup milk
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but very common)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprikaGlaze
¾ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
Instructions
Preheat ovenSet oven to 350°F (175°C).Lightly grease a large baking dish or loaf pan.Mix meatloafIn a large bowl, add ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, eggs, milk, cheese, and seasonings.Mix gently with hands until just combined (do not overmix).ShapeForm into two loaves (best for even cooking) or one large loaf.Place into baking dish.Make glazeMix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.Top & bakeSpread half the glaze over the meatloaf.
Bake 45 minutes.Final glazeRemove from oven, spread remaining glaze on top.Return to oven and bake 15–20 minutes more, until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).Rest & serveLet rest 10 minutes before slicing
