Cheese-Stuffed Ritz Cracker Meatloaf
This Cheese-Stuffed Ritz Cracker Meatloaf is everything a classic meatloaf should be — tender, juicy, flavorful, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. The crushed Ritz crackers keep the texture perfectly soft while the hidden layer of melted cheese in the center makes every slice extra special. It's the kind of comforting family dinner that earns a permanent spot in your recipe box.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1½ to 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 eggs whisked
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- ¾ cup diced yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers about 2 sleeves
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Cheese Center
- ¾ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Mix the base.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the whisked eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, ketchup, onion, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, crushed Ritz crackers, garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
Add the beef.
- Add the ground beef and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Prep the dish.
- Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
Form the bottom layer.
- Place half of the meat mixture into the baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
Add the cheese center.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese down the center of the loaf, leaving space around the edges so the cheese stays tucked inside.
Cover with the top layer.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture and carefully shape it into a loaf, completely covering the cheese.
Make the glaze.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Glaze the loaf.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Rest and serve.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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