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Meatloaf Recipe With Crackers

Meatloaf Recipe With Crackers - Great Meal Recipes

Growing up, meatloaf was a staple in my household. It was the dish that brought everyone to the table, the comforting aroma filling our home with anticipation. 
As a registered dietitian, I’ve always been fascinated by how certain foods can evoke memories and emotions. Meatloaf with crackers is a nostalgic twist on this classic dish. 
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 269
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 21 saltine crackers, crushed half a package
  • 1 1/2 pounds medium-fat ground beef
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/3 cup finely diced green bell pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Heinz ketchup for serving

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-heated oven ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Crush the saltine crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling a rolling pin over them. Then, chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, add the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, green bell pepper, egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and a generous amount of black pepper. Mix everything together gently. You want to combine all the ingredients without overworking the meat.
Step 4: Form the Meatloaf
  1. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a lined loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, making sure it fits comfortably within the dish.
Step 5: Top with Tomato Puree
  1. Spread the tomato puree evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This step adds moisture during baking and a delightful flavor.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
  1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of ketchup for dipping.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out amazing:
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: This will help you achieve the perfect doneness without guesswork.
  • Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to include grated cheese or different veggies, like shredded carrots.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps lock in moisture.
  • Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger meatloaf.