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Sandy Gowland

Road Tested Classic Meatloaf

A simple, old-fashioned meatloaf made with ground beef, crackers, garlic, onions, and peppers. This family-favorite recipe is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, with a tender texture and plenty of savory flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean preferred, though 80–90% works well)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 sleeve saltine crackers I use unsalted tops
  • 2 tblsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion yellow or red preferred
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped bell pepper red preferred, but green works great
  • 4 slices cheese American, Swiss or Provolone all work great
  • 1/2 cup ketchup

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Disposable aluminum cake pan (or baking pan)
  • 1 Wire rack that fits inside the pan
  • 1 Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Place the ground beef, eggs, crushed saltine crackers, minced garlic, chopped onion, and chopped pepper into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a wire rack set inside a disposable aluminum cake pan or baking pan.
  5. Bake for approximately 2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F.
  6. Top with slices of cheese, and cover with ketchup.
  7. Put back in the oven until the cheese is melted.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Using a wire rack allows excess grease to drain away during cooking, resulting in a less greasy meatloaf.
  • Red bell peppers provide a slightly sweeter flavor than green peppers.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the loaf and your oven.
  • Leftovers make excellent sandwiches and grilled sandwiches the next day.
Author's Note:
This recipe has been our go-to meatloaf for years. It's simple, dependable, and one of those comfort-food dinners that always disappears quickly at the table.