Name: Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 packet dry onion soup mix.; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers.; 1 egg, beaten.; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.; 1 teaspoon black pepper.; 1 teaspoon garlic powder.; 2 tablespoons ketchup.; 1 tablespoon mustard.; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.; 1 cup whole milk.; 1 1/2 pounds ground beef.

Ritz Cracker Beef Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, using buttery Ritz crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs to create a moist and flavorful dish. The combination of crushed crackers, dry onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth that elevates this comfort food favorite. The meatloaf is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ritz Cracker Beef Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, perfect for those looking to elevate their comfort food game. By swapping out traditional breadcrumbs for buttery, salty Ritz crackers, this recipe delivers a richer, more flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to become a new family favorite. It’s easy to make, yet full of depth, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or even a special Sunday meal.

INGREDIENTS

1 packet dry onion soup mix: Adds a savory, robust flavor to the meatloaf, enhancing the taste of the beef.
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: Replaces breadcrumbs, bringing a buttery richness and a slightly salty kick to the dish.
1 egg, beaten: Helps to bind the meatloaf together, ensuring it holds its shape during baking.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the meatloaf without overpowering the other ingredients.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and balances the flavors in the meatloaf.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the meatloaf with a subtle garlicky flavor, complementing the other seasonings.
2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a slight tang and sweetness, helping to keep the meatloaf moist.
1 tablespoon mustard: Brings a touch of acidity and sharpness, balancing the richness of the beef and crackers.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor, enriching the overall taste of the meatloaf.
1 cup whole milk: Moistens the mixture, ensuring the meatloaf remains tender and juicy.
1 1/2 pounds ground beef: The main protein, providing a hearty base for the meatloaf, with enough fat to keep it moist and flavorful.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is ready and at the correct temperature when the meatloaf is prepared.
Step 2:: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten egg, and whole milk. Stir the ingredients together and allow the mixture to rest for a few minutes. This lets the crackers absorb some of the liquid, helping to bind the meatloaf together.
Step 3:: Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, mustard, and ketchup to the cracker mixture. Stir well to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4:: Gently fold the ground beef into the cracker mixture, using your hands or a large spoon. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Step 5:: Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Transfer the beef mixture into the pan, gently pressing it down to shape but without compacting it too much.
Step 6:: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and no pink remains in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf; it should read 160°F (71°C).
Step 7:: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
Step 8:: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the pan and slice it into portions. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans, for a complete, comforting meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Ritz Cracker Beef Meatloaf is best served hot, right after it’s baked. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a complete, hearty meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Leftover meatloaf also makes great sandwiches. Serve it cold or reheated on a toasted bun with a little extra ketchup or mustard for a delicious lunch option.

Helpful Notes

If you prefer a sweeter glaze on your meatloaf, mix together 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon mustard. Spread this mixture on top of the meatloaf before baking for a caramelized, tangy finish.
For added flavor, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture before baking.
This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re serving a larger crowd. Simply divide the mixture between two loaf pans and adjust the baking time as needed.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Don’t rush the mixing process. Overworking the meat can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf. Be gentle and mix just until everything is combined.”
Chef Ina Garten: “I like to use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor and juicier texture. The pork adds a bit of sweetness and keeps the meatloaf moist.”
Chef Alton Brown: “Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making for cleaner slices and a better overall texture.”