Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers

Picture a cozy kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of a classic meatloaf baking to perfection.

This easy-to-make dish, featuring the comforting crunch of Ritz crackers, is a favorite for its simple yet indulgent appeal.

As the ingredients meld together in the oven, they transform into a savory masterpiece that’s sure to please.

Let’s bring this delicious meatloaf to life and enjoy a heartwarming meal together.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 loaf pan
• 1 frying pan
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 spoon

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup, for topping

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time when preparing and cooking meatloaf with Ritz crackers, you can follow this timeline:

Timeline for Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers:

1. Reading and Preparation (10 minutes)
   • Start by reading through the entire recipe to understand the steps and gather all your ingredients and equipment.
2. Prep Time (15 minutes)
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Crush the Ritz crackers.
   • Finely chop the onion.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onion, milk, egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined.
   • Lightly grease the loaf pan.
   • Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan, pressing down gently to shape it into a loaf.
   • Spread 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
3. Cook Time (1 hour)
   • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
4. Resting Time (10 minutes)
   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Feel free to adjust the timeline as needed to suit your pace and kitchen setup.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onion, milk, egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Lightly grease the loaf pan and transfer the meat mixture into it, pressing down gently to shape it into a loaf.

Spread 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Tips

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic and comforting side dish that pairs well with the savory flavors of meatloaf.
• Steamed Vegetables: A mix of steamed vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and green beans adds a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.
• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich meatloaf.
• Buttered Corn: Sweet and buttery corn complements the savory and slightly tangy taste of the meatloaf.
• Garlic Bread: Warm and garlicky bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the meatloaf.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

To freeze meatloaf, cool it completely.

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Then store it in an airtight container.

Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat meatloaf with Ritz crackers, cover slices with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Alternatively, microwave covered slices on low heat to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers is a classic American dish that combines simplicity with comfort.

It’s perfect for a hearty family meal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?

You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef, enhancing health benefits. Use culinary techniques like adding moisture-rich ingredients such as onions or mushrooms to prevent dryness. Pair with herbs like thyme or rosemary for enriched flavor balance.

How Can I Make the Meatloaf Gluten-Free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute crushed Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Confirm your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. These swaps maintain texture and flavor, guaranteeing a deliciously balanced meatloaf that caters to dietary needs.

What Are Some Alternative Toppings to Ketchup?

To elevate your dish, try topping it with a balsamic glaze or a savory mushroom sauce. These options harmonize with the meat’s richness, providing depth and a sophisticated touch to the flavor profile. Experiment boldly!

Can I Use a Different Type of Cracker?

Absolutely, you can substitute Ritz with saltines, panko, or even cornflakes for a unique texture. Choose a cracker that complements your meatloaf’s flavor profile. Experiment with herbs and spices to elevate your dish’s complexity.

Is It Possible to Make This Meatloaf in Advance?

You can absolutely prepare this dish in advance. Assemble the mixture, shape it into a loaf, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows flavors to meld beautifully. Bake it the next day for a perfectly seasoned, tender result.

Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Equipment

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 Loaf pan
• 1 Frying pan
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 Spoon

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup for topping

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onion, milk, egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined.
• Lightly grease the loaf pan and transfer the meat mixture into it, pressing down gently to shape it into a loaf.
• Spread 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
• Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

To ensure the meatloaf is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For added flavor, consider incorporating finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the meat mixture. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can mix the ketchup with a little brown sugar before spreading it on top.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.