Easy Meatloaf Recipe with Crackers: A Crowd-Pleaser
Are you looking for a comforting, delicious, and surprisingly easy meatloaf recipe? Look no further! This recipe uses crushed crackers for added texture and flavor, making it a family favorite that's sure to impress. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed for simplicity and uses common pantry staples. You probably already have most of these ingredients at home!
- 1.5 lbs ground beef: Choose your preferred ground beef fat percentage. Leaner ground beef will result in a slightly drier meatloaf, while a higher fat percentage will make it more moist and tender.
- 1 cup crushed crackers: Saltine crackers work best, but Ritz or any similar cracker will do. Simply crush them finely in a bag or with a rolling pin.
- 1/2 cup milk: This helps to bind the meatloaf and keep it moist.
- 1 large egg: Another binding agent that adds structure to the meatloaf.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds flavor and texture. You can use yellow onion, white onion, or even a little bit of both!
- 1/4 cup ketchup: A classic meatloaf ingredient that adds sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly.
- Crush the crackers: Place crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin until they are finely crumbled.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Baking the Meatloaf:
- Shape the meatloaf: Gently form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape in a baking dish. A 9x5 inch loaf pan works well.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious meatloaf with your favorite sides. Some popular options include:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food pairing.
- Green beans: A simple and healthy side dish.
- Gravy: Homemade gravy or a simple store-bought variety perfectly complements the meatloaf.
- Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps to keep it moist and juicy.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as BBQ sauce, brown sugar, or even a glaze.
This easy meatloaf recipe with crackers is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy! Remember to share your delicious creations on social media and tag us! Happy cooking!
