Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix 2 lb ground beef (85% lean), 1 cup crushed buttery crackers, 1 cup shredded cheddar, ½ cup diced onion, 2 large eggs, ½ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until just combined — stop when you don't see dry cracker pockets. Overmixing makes a dense loaf.

2. 2

   Shape into a freeform loaf on a parchment-lined sheet, or press into a loaf pan. Stir together ½ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon yellow mustard. Spread half of that glaze over the top so it looks glossy and evenly coated.

3. 3

   Bake 55–65 minutes until an instant-read thermometer in the center hits 160°F and the edges look browned. Brush on the remaining glaze and bake 2–3 more minutes so it sets sticky and shiny.

4. 4

   Rest 10 minutes before slicing so the juices settle. You want a tender, cheese-flecked slice with a sweet ketchup glaze — not a dry crumbly brick or a pink undercooked center.