Cracker-Crusted Meatloaf Recipe: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsCracker-Crusted Meatloaf TipsIngredients- 1.5 pounds of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)- 1 cup of Italian seasoned b……
Guide or Summary：
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup of finely crushed saltine crackers
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- ¼ cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
2. **Prepare the Breading Mixture**: In a bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and crushed saltine crackers. This mixture will serve as a coating for your meatloaf, giving it a crispy exterior.
3. **Mix the Ground Beef**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. **Add the Wet Ingredients**: Pour in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir gently to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
5. **Combine Breading and Meat Mixture**: Add the prepared breadcrumb and cracker mixture to the meat mixture. Use your hands to gently fold the breadcrumbs into the meatloaf until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
6. **Shape the Meatloaf**: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a loaf pan that has been lightly greased with olive oil. Shape the mixture into a long, even loaf. If you prefer, you can also shape it into a football or any other shape of your choice.
7. **Brush with Olive Oil**: Brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil. This will help to keep the surface moist and enhance the flavor.
8. **Bake**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. For the last 10 minutes of cooking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the top with additional ketchup to create a glaze.
9. **Rest and Serve**: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Cracker-Crusted Meatloaf Tips
- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Freshly ground beef and finely chopped onions will result in a more flavorful meatloaf.
- **Season Generously**: Don't be afraid to season your meatloaf generously. The dried herbs and spices add a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the meat.
- **Adjust the Breading Ratio**: If you prefer a more or less crispy exterior, adjust the ratio of breadcrumbs to crushed crackers. More crackers will result in a crisper crust, while more breadcrumbs will yield a softer texture.
- **Glaze for Extra Flavor**: For an extra burst of flavor, add a glaze to your meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. A simple mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard can add a delicious sweet and savory flavor to your finished dish.
- **Serve with Your Favorite Sides**: Meatloaf pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, green beans, and a simple salad. Enjoy your homemade cracker-crusted meatloaf with all your favorite accompaniments for a hearty and satisfying meal.
This cracker-crusted meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich, savory flavors, it's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, this meatloaf recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!