Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup yellow onion (finely diced)
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper (finely diced)
  • 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef (see notes for alternative meat suggestion)
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 eggs (whisked)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. yellow mustard

Instruction

  • Preheat oven 350 degrees 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 155 degrees.)
  • 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 degrees before you slice it.
  • Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and enjoy!