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Cooking Tips You Should Know
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the loaf tender.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it hold its shape when sliced.
Ingredients 0/10
Reasons You'll Love It
This meatloaf is a comforting classic that brings rich flavors and a hearty texture to your table. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. The blend of ingredients creates a moist and flavorful dish everyone will enjoy.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cracker crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, most of the cocktail sauce (about 3/4 of the jar), and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well combined. Press the mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan, then lay bacon strips over the top. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes. While it's cooking, combine the remaining cocktail sauce, brown sugar, and dry mustard in a small bowl to make a glaze. After the 50 minutes are up, take the meatloaf out and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. When it’s done, let it cool slightly before serving warm.
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Great Ways To Serve
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a traditional meal. A side of tangy tomato sauce or gravy pairs well to enhance the flavors. A simple green salad can add freshness and balance to the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven to keep it moist. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of buttery round crackers?
Yes, fresh bread crumbs work well as a substitute and will keep the texture moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F and be firm to the touch.
Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes, you can skip the bacon or use a bacon substitute, but it adds flavor and moisture.
What can I use if I don’t have Crosse & Blackwell Seafood Cocktail Sauce?
You can substitute with your favorite cocktail sauce or a mix of ketchup and horseradish.
Is it okay to prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze the cooked meatloaf?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Using extra lean beef and the cocktail sauce helps retain moisture; avoid overbaking.
Can I bake this meatloaf in a different pan size?
Yes, just adjust baking time accordingly; a larger pan will cook faster, a smaller one slower.
