Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
1 sleeve (approx. 40) saltine crackers, crushed
1 packet (2 oz) Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
1 tbsp yellow mustard (for glaze)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or a baking sheet if free-forming the meatloaf.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, milk, crushed saltine crackers, Lipton Onion Soup Mix, chopped onion, green bell pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. The mixture should still be moist but hold together.
Step 4: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it evenly, or shape it into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
Step 6: Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 7: Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C). After 1 hour, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached.
Step 8: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Notes
For best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to ensure a tender texture. Resting the meatloaf after baking is crucial for juicy slices. This recipe is a true taste of Southern hospitality and comfort.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg