Table Of Content show

Million Dollar Meatloaf

This million-dollar meatloaf is a sophisticated twist on the classic comfort dish.

Featuring buttery cracker crumbs and a sweet-and-spicy pepper jelly glaze that creates an irresistible caramelized crust, it’s perfect for Sunday family dinners.

The secret lies in the balanced blend of seasonings and that glossy, stick-to-your-fork glaze that makes everyone come back for seconds.

One bite, and you’ll understand exactly why this recipe earned its million-dollar status.

Million dollar meatloaf on a wooden board with dripping glaze and parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Meatloaf

Easy Comfort Food: This isn’t your grandmother’s meatloaf. It’s an elevated version that combines nostalgic comfort with modern flair.

Moist & Juicy: Say goodbye to dry meatloaf! The combination of evaporated milk and buttery crackers ensures your meatloaf stays perfectly juicy.

Sweet & Spicy Glaze: The blend of pepper jelly, hot sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar creates an irresistible sweet and spicy topping that caramelizes beautifully.

Budget-Stretcher: Despite its fancy name, this recipe transforms affordable ground beef into a memorable meal that feeds a crowd with ease.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend provides the ideal fat content for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf.
Crushed Buttery Crackers: These act as a binder while adding a rich buttery flavor. I use Ritz, but any brand will work.
Evaporated Milk: This concentrated milk helps maintain moisture and a tender texture.
Eggs: Essential for helping the meatloaf hold together.
Onion & Garlic: Onions add sweetness while garlic provides a savory depth.
Ketchup & Worcestershire Sauce: These flavor boosters add umami and tang.
Italian Seasoning: Introduces a complementary earthy flavor to the mix.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat.
Glaze: A mix of ketchup for tang, pepper jelly for sweetness and heat, brown sugar for caramelization, and hot sauce for an extra kick.

Slice of meatloaf served with mashed potatoes and broccoli.

How to Make Million Dollar Meatloaf

If you’ve never made meatloaf before, let this be your first! It’s incredibly tender, perfectly spiced, and topped with a dreamy glaze.

And while it might taste like a million bucks, the recipe is ridiculously easy to follow.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
Mix the crackers, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then gently mix in the ground beef.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
Whisk together the ketchup, pepper jelly, brown sugar, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Spread half of this mixture over the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes, brush with the remaining glaze, and then bake again for an additional 20-30 minutes.
Cool for 10 minutes, slice, and serve.

Tips For the Best Million Dollar Meatloaf

This million-dollar meatloaf is perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, and even dinner parties.

The generous size and impressive presentation make it ideal for feeding a crowd. Here are some tips to elevate your meatloaf even further:

Choose quality meat: Use freshly ground 80/20 beef chuck for the perfect juiciness and flavor without excess grease.
Garnish with extra glaze: For added flavor and moisture, reserve 1/4 cup of glaze to brush on individual slices when serving.
Use a baking sheet: This allows for better caramelization and prevents the meat from steaming in its juices.
Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer inserted at an angle into the thickest part; the center should read 160°F (71°C).
DIY the jelly: Mix your favorite fruit preserves with a pinch of cayenne for homemade pepper jelly. Adjust the glaze to your liking!
Try other versions: Get creative with different flavors—consider an Italian style with mozzarella stuffing and marinara glaze, or a Southwest version with taco seasoning and cheese.
Make it in advance: Prepare the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shape, wrap, and refrigerate. Let it warm slightly to room temperature while the oven preheats.

Slices of meatloaf with mashed potatoes and broccoli on the side.

How to Store

Leftovers taste even better as sandwiches the next day! They’re also delightful with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a cozy meal.

To Store: Place the cooled meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. If you have an uncooked meatloaf, wrap it whole tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

To Reheat: Place slices in a shallow baking dish with 1 tablespoon of beef broth per slice, cover with foil, and reheat at 250°F for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, heat slices in a skillet with butter over medium-low heat until warmed through.