Meatloaf, a classic comfort food, just got a whole lot more interesting. By incorporating crackers into your meatloaf mixture or using them as a crunchy topping, you can add texture, flavor, and excitement to this beloved dish. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory meatloaf recipes that incorporate crackers in creative ways, from classic combinations like cheese and crackers to bold twists featuring spicy BBQ sauce and herbed Ritz crackers.
Whether you’re a meatloaf newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So go ahead, get crackin’ (literally!), and discover the delicious world of savory meatloaf with crackers.
Classic Crackers and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
Elevate your dinner game with this comforting meatloaf packed with a surprise cracker and cheese filling. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 Ritz crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, and water. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Crackers Crusted Meatloaf
Elevate your classic meatloaf with the savory flavor of garlic parmesan crackers! This recipe adds a crispy, cheesy crust to your favorite comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed garlic parmesan crackers (about 10-12 crackers)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and gently press crackers onto the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy BBQ Crackers Glazed Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the comfort of a classic meatloaf with the crunch of spiced crackers and a tangy BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup Spicy BBQ Crackers, crushed (see below)
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a separate bowl, mix crushed Spicy BBQ Crackers, ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Ritz Crackers Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
Transform your classic meatloaf into a show-stopping main course by incorporating herby flavors and crunchy textures. This recipe combines tender meatloaf, savory mushroom gravy, and crispy Herbed Ritz crackers for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Herbed Ritz crackers, crushed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While meatloaf cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender.
6. Stir in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Serve meatloaf with mushroom gravy spooned over the top. Sprinkle crushed Herbed Ritz crackers on top for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Cheesy Crackers and Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
This comforting recipe combines the rich flavors of meatloaf with the crispy, cheesy goodness of crackers. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped bacon
– 1 cup crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped bacon. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap the meatloaf with additional chopped bacon.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the cheesy crackers by spreading shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the crackers.
7. Serve the meatloaf with a side of cheesy crackers and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Crackers Topped Meatloaf
Elevate your classic meatloaf game with a tangy twist! This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, pork, and spices with a sweet and crunchy topping featuring crushed crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and crushed crackers in a bowl.
6. After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, top with the sweet and tangy cracker mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Savory Italian Crackers Meatloaf with Marinara
Elevate your meatloaf game with this savory twist, featuring Italian crackers and a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Italian crackers, crushed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, chopped onion, minced garlic, and egg. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Crackers Stuffed Meatloaf
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative twist on the classic meatloaf! This juicy loaf is filled with a surprise center of spicy jalapeño poppers, adding a bold and exciting flavor dimension.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 8-10 jalapeño poppers, finely chopped (see note)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into two equal parts. Shape one part into a loaf shape, then create a hole in the center using your thumb.
4. Stuff the hole with chopped jalapeño poppers and shredded cheese.
5. Close the hole by gently pushing the meat edges together.
6. Place the stuffed meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top with ketchup or BBQ sauce, if desired.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Note: To make jalapeño poppers, simply mix softened cream cheese with diced jalapeños and wrap in tortillas. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Smoky Gouda and Crackers Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, this Smoky Gouda and Crackers Meatloaf combines the savory flavors of smoked gouda cheese with crunchy crackers for a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines work well)
– 1/4 cup grated Smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, crackers, smoked gouda cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spray the top of the meatloaf with cooking spray or brush with oil.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Maple Glazed Crackers Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your meatloaf game with this sweet and savory twist, featuring a maple glaze and caramelized onions on top of a classic beef loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup crackers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
4. Glaze with maple syrup, ketchup, and water mixture (see below).
5. Top with caramelized onions and crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Caramelized Onions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium-low heat.
2. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Greek Style Feta and Crackers Meatloaf
Greek Style Feta and Crackers Meatloaf Recipe
Elevate your meatloaf game with this unique twist on a classic dish, featuring the tangy flavors of Greece. This hearty loaf is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Greek-style feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, feta cheese, crushed crackers, parsley, and garlic. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Buffalo Ranch Crackers Crusted Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this creative twist featuring spicy Buffalo ranch crackers crusting the outside, while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Buffalo ranch seasoning
– 6-8 Buffalo ranch crackers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into two portions. Shape each portion into a loaf shape.
4. Place one of the loaves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top with crushed Buffalo ranch crackers.
5. Place the second loaf on top of the crackers, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Crackers Meatloaf
Loaded Baked Potato Meatloaf: A Twist on a Classic
This unique meatloaf recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the savory flavors of a classic meatloaf. With the addition of crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 1 large baked potato, mashed
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, cheese, bacon, mashed potato, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Crackers Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe combines the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and crunchy crackers for a delightful twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, sun-dried tomatoes, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Crackers Glazed Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this sweet and savory twist, featuring a honey mustard cracker crust that adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup honey mustard sauce
– 1/4 cup crushed Honey Mustard Crackers (or similar)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, honey mustard sauce, crushed crackers, egg, ketchup, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Glaze the meatloaf with additional honey mustard sauce (about 2 tbsp).
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto and Parmesan Crackers Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, this dish combines the savory flavors of beef and pork with the brightness of pesto and the crunch of parmesan crackers. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crushed parmesan crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, pesto, breadcrumbs, egg, and parmesan cheese. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Top with crushed parmesan crackers.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Crackers Meatloaf
A unique twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, this dish combines the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce and pineapple with a crunchy cracker topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pineapple
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup crackers (such as Ritz or saltines), crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, pineapple, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southwestern Crackers and Black Bean Meatloaf
This recipe combines the comfort of meatloaf with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine. Spicy black beans add depth to the classic beef mixture, while crunchy crackers provide a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Southwestern Crackers (recipe below)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Southwestern Crackers:
– 1 cup whole wheat crackers, crushed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, black beans, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Form into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top with crushed Southwestern Crackers and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips:
– Serve with your favorite toppings, such as salsa and avocado.
– Make extra Southwestern Crackers for snacking!
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meatloaf game with these 18 savory recipes featuring crackers as a key ingredient! From classic comfort food to spicy twists and international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Recipes include Garlic Parmesan Crackers Crusted Meatloaf, Spicy BBQ Crackers Glazed Meatloaf, Cheesy Crackers and Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf, and many more. These creative combinations will take your meatloaf to the next level, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering.
