Ultimate Cheesy Glazed Meatloaf

Ingredients

Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80–85% lean)

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried parsley

Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce

• 1 tsp yellow mustard

• A splash of Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crackers/breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, garlic, cheese, and remaining spices.
   Mix gently with your hands — don’t overwork it!

3. Shape into a loaf on a lined baking dish or loaf pan.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients.

5. Brush half of the glaze over the meatloaf.

6. Bake for 45 minutes.

7. Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake another 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Rest 10 minutes before slicing — this keeps it juicy!

Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes ✅

• Green beans or roasted vegetables ✅

• Cornbread ✅

Extra Flavor Tips

• Add cooked bacon bits for extra smokiness 😍

• Swap cheddar with pepper jack for some heat 🌶️

• Use a mix of beef + pork for more tenderness

ENJOY