Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers Recipe

The Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers Recipe is tender, juicy and full of classic comfort flavor. Instead of regular breadcrumbs, this recipe uses buttery Ritz crackers.

This gives the meatloaf a soft texture and rich taste. Many families love the Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers Recipe because it is simple and always satisfying.

If you want to learn How to make Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers, this guide will help you step by step.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

• The secret behind this delicious meatloaf is crushed Ritz crackers.
• They add buttery flavor and keep the meat very moist.
• A simple ketchup glaze on top creates a sweet and tangy finish.
• Resting the meatloaf after baking keeps it juicy.

Recipe Card

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers Recipe
• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American / Southern
• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon or spatula

Ingredients You Need

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

These are the simple ingredients that make this meatloaf so flavorful.

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Crush Crackers
   Crush Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using your hands or a rolling pin.
3. Mix Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, eggs, onion, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Combine Gently
   Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Shape the Loaf
   Transfer mixture into the loaf pan. Shape evenly.
6. Prepare Glaze
   In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar and mustard.
7. Add Glaze
   Spread glaze evenly over the top.
8. Bake
   Bake for 55–60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest
   Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
10. Serve
    Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Now you know How to make Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor.
• Add shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
• Mix half ground beef and half ground pork for richer taste.
• Add chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Bake on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan for crisp edges.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	9 g

Values are approximate.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Add cornbread or dinner rolls for a full Southern meal.
• Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm.
• Freeze cooked slices for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
2. Can I use turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, but the texture will be lighter.
3. Why use Ritz crackers?
   They add buttery flavor and keep the meatloaf moist.
4. Can I skip the glaze?
   Yes, but it adds extra flavor and moisture.
5. How do I keep it from falling apart?
   Do not overmix and let it rest before slicing.

Conclusion

The Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers Recipe is simple, moist and full of classic flavor. Using Ritz crackers makes it extra tender and buttery. Try this comforting recipe for your next family dinner and enjoy a true Southern favorite.