Million Dollar Meatloaf

What makes our million dollar meatloaf so good? First, this recipe has depth of flavors with beef and onion (and real onions, not dry soup mixes). Ritz crackers and evaporated milk make it taste rich.

But the real star? A favorite Southern ingredient: pepper jelly. As a topping, pepper jelly adds just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of heat to this meatloaf recipe that is unlike any you've ever had.

This meatloaf is a weeknight warrior that can be made ahead so you're ready to serve dinner at a moment's notice. Serve with any of our favorite veggie sides, along with roasted or mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal for the whole family.

Why Is It Called Million Dollar Meatloaf?

While this meatloaf definitely won't cost a million dollars to make, the flavor makes it worthy of its name. With buttery crackers, flavorful additions like Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion, lean ground beef, and the ultimate tangy-sweet-peppery topping of ketchup and pepper jelly, we think this meatloaf is a cut above the rest.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Meatloaf

A classic meatloaf, made with buttery crackers, evaporated milk, eggs, and a variety of seasonings, is topped with a unique mix of ketchup and pepper jelly for a mouthwatering balance of flavors. To make million dollar meatloaf, you'll need:

• Cooking spray: Greases the foil to keep the meatloaf from sticking.
• Buttery crackers: Helps bind the meatloaf mixture and absorb the moisture of the evaporated milk.
• Evaporated milk: Adds moisture and richness to the meatloaf.
• Worcestershire sauce: For umami flavor.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Large eggs: Binds and gives the meatloaf structure.
• Garlic cloves: Adds a savory depth.
• Sweet onion: For a sweet, aromatic touch.
• 85% lean ground beef: Lean ground beef has just enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist, without it being overly greasy.
  
• Ketchup: Tops the meatloaf for sweetness and tanginess.
• Pepper jelly: Adds a spicy-sweet flavor profile that gives this meatloaf a unique twist.

What's the Best Meat To Use for Meatloaf?

This meatloaf spends over an hour in the oven, and with that long of a cooking time, it's important to choose the right ground beef to avoid a dry result. An 85/15 (or 80/20) package of ground beef has a higher fat-to-lean ratio than, say, a 90/10 blend. This extra fat will help keep your meatloaf from drying out and becoming tough as it bakes.

How To Make Million Dollar Meatloaf

Million dollar meatloaf requires just 10 minutes of active time for a hearty entree that bakes up in just about an hour. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare a pan: Line a sheet pan with foil and spray to coat.
• Step 2. Form loaf: Stir together meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl. Add beef and mix to combine. Form into a 9- x 4-inch loaf on prepared pan.
• Step 3. Bake: Bake for 35 minutes. Whisk together ketchup and pepper jelly in a bowl.
• Step 4. Glaze: Remove meatloaf from oven and top with ketchup mixture.
• Step 5. Finish baking: Bake until a thermometer inserted in center registers 165°F, about 30 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing.

Million Dollar Meatloaf Variations

For a customized version of this meatloaf, consider any of these variation ideas:

• Protein: Swap the beef with ground turkey, or part ground pork for additional flavor.
• Crackers: Substitute the crackers with breadcrumbs or ground oats if preferred.
• Spices: Add paprika, cayenne, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
• Herbs: Add an herbaceous touch with fresh thyme, parsley, oregano or rosemary.
• Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, or spinach for a nutrient-rich addition.
• Cheese: Add shredded Cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella cheese for additional richness.
• Bacon: Top or add in crumbled bacon for a salty, smoky touch.
• Swap the glaze: If you aren't a pepper jelly fan, opt for a classic ketchup-based glaze, or get creative with any of these sauces and glazes.
  

Can I Make Million Dollar Meatloaf Ahead?

To get ahead of your meal prep, you can prepare this meatloaf ahead for quick reheating. Make the meatloaf as directed, and cool to room temperature. Then, wrap tightly and refrigerate up to two days ahead for the freshest flavor, or freeze for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat, covered with foil, in a preheated 350°F oven until hot throughout before serving.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Million Dollar Meatloaf

Refrigerate leftover meatloaf for up to four days. Cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven until hot throughout before serving. You can also reheat small portions on the stovetop or in the microwave. Consider adding a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the meat from drying out.

What To Serve With Million Dollar Meatloaf

Serve million dollar meatloaf with green beans and mashed potatoes for a classic pairing. But this versatile dish pairs well with just about any side—Brussels sprouts, skillet roasted carrots, seasonal salads, baked potatoes, creamed spinach, rice, mac and cheese, coleslaw, cornbread, pasta, or steamed vegetables would all make excellent pairings.

More Classic Meatloaf Recipes You'll Love

Serving meatloaf for dinner promises a comforting, satisfying meal for the whole family. Whether you want to give a new recipe a try or you don't yet have a favorite, one of these flavorful meatloaf recipes might be just the one you need:

• Southern Meatloaf
• Cajun-Style Meatloaf
• Sheet Pan Meatloaf
• Muffin Tin Meatloaf
• Meatloaf Casserole
• Turkey Meatloaf
• Bev's Famous Meatloaf
• Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.