Paula Deen Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers Recipe

This Paula Deen Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers Recipe is a tender and juicy recipe, which is made with ground beef and buttery Ritz crackers. It’s the perfect family dinner, ready in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Paula Deen Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers Recipe Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ tbsp unsalted butter or vegetable oil
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 lb ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 ½ tsp dried thyme
• 1 ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp pepper

For the Sweet Chili Glaze:

• ¾ cup ketchup
• ¾ cup sweet chili sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar

How To Make Paula Deen Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers

1. Preheat and Sauté Veggies: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onions and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 more seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat to cool.
2. Soak the Crackers: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the crackers have absorbed the milk and the mixture has thickened.
3. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, add the ground beef, the soaked Ritz cracker mixture, the cooled sautéed vegetables, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and all the dried seasonings (thyme, basil, parsley, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder). Use your hands to gently mix until just combined.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, sweet chili sauce, and brown sugar until smooth.
5. Shape and Glaze: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Continue to bake for another 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial for keeping it juicy and helping it hold its shape.

Recipe Tips

• Why soak the crackers in milk? This technique, known as a “panade,” ensures the meatloaf stays incredibly moist. The soaked crackers act like a sponge, holding onto moisture during cooking.
• How do I avoid a dense meatloaf? Do not overmix the meat. Use a light touch and mix with your hands only until the ingredients are just combined. Overworking the ground beef will result in a tough, compact meatloaf.
• Can I adjust the seasonings? Yes. The original recipe notes that the seasoning is bold. If you prefer a less intense flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic powder and onion powder.
• How to prevent a soggy bottom? For a crispier exterior, place the shaped meatloaf on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. This allows the fat to drip away during cooking.

What To Serve With Ritz Cracker Meatloaf

This flavorful meatloaf with its sweet and tangy glaze pairs well with classic comfort food sides.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Buttered Noodles
• Roasted Green Beans or Broccoli
• A simple side salad

How To Store Ritz Cracker Meatloaf

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the cooled meatloaf (whole or in slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ritz Cracker Meatloaf Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 25g
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 1030mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

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