Ingredients:
2 eggs
2/3 cup milk
32 Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
Optional for Topping:
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf is ready to go as soon as the preparation is complete.
Step 2: Prepare the Cracker Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 eggs and 2/3 cup milk. Whisk them together until well mixed. Then, add the crushed Ritz crackers to the bowl. These crackers will provide a light, airy texture and absorb the juices, keeping the meatloaf moist. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the crackers are fully soaked in the egg and milk mixture.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Onions
Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the mixture. The onions will add a subtle sweetness and crunch, while the cheese contributes a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the meat. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Ground Meat
Next, add your choice of ground meat. Typically, ground beef is used, but you can also use a mixture of beef and pork for a richer taste. Use about 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground meat. Mix it into the cracker mixture, but be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 5: Season the Mixture
Season the meat mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, depending on your preferences. If you’d like, you can also add black pepper, garlic powder, or other spices to give the meatloaf a little extra flavor.
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