In the South, meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that has been passed down through generations. It's a simple and hearty dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, but one ingredient that truly sets it apart is the use of Ritz crackers. These buttery and crunchy crackers add a unique flavor and texture to the meatloaf that is sure to please any meatloaf lover. In this article, we will share a classic southern meatloaf recipe that incorporates Ritz crackers and takes this dish to the next level.
First up on our list of top 20 Beer Can Chicken recipes is a classic Southern dish that's perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners. This creamy, cheesy casserole is made with tender squash, onions, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. The addition of beer can chicken adds a depth of flavor that takes this already delicious dish to the next level.
Sweet onions are a staple in Southern cooking, and this casserole is the perfect showcase for their delicious flavor. The combination of sweet onions, tangy sour cream, and savory beer can chicken is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
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Southern Vidalia Onion Casserole
Main Ingredients: Vidalia Onions, Unsalted Butter, Eggs, Evaporated Milk
If you're a fan of Vidalia onions, then this casserole is a must-try. With a buttery Ritz cracker topping and a creamy, cheesy filling, it's the perfect side dish for any meal. The addition of beer can chicken adds a smoky, savory element that pairs perfectly with the sweet onions.
For a healthier take on the classic broccoli casserole, try adding beer can chicken to the mix. The tender chicken adds a protein boost and a delicious smoky flavor to this creamy, cheesy dish. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some veggies into your family's diet.
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Southern Cabbage Casserole
Main Ingredients: Green Cabbage, Large Onion, Salt, Black Pepper, Cream
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy cabbage, look no further than this delicious casserole. With layers of tender cabbage, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, it's a hearty and flavorful dish that everyone will love. And of course, the addition of beer can chicken takes it to the next level.
This classic Southern dish is a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. The combination of juicy tomatoes, tangy mayo, and gooey cheese is already mouthwatering, but when you add beer can chicken to the mix, it becomes downright irresistible. Serve it as a side dish or a main course with a side salad.
If you've never tried a pineapple casserole before, you're in for a treat. This sweet and savory dish is a staple at Southern potlucks and holiday gatherings, and for good reason. The combination of juicy pineapple, buttery Ritz crackers, and beer can chicken is a winning combination that'll have everyone asking for the recipe.
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RITZ Country Fried Ribs with Zesty Buttermilk Ranch...
Main Ingredients: Ribs, Ritz Crackers, Granulated Garlic, Kosher Salt
For a unique twist on traditional fried chicken, try this recipe for country fried ribs. The crispy Ritz cracker coating and zesty buttermilk ranch dipping sauce make these ribs a mouthwatering treat. And when paired with beer can chicken, it's a true flavor explosion.
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Pulled Pork Game Day Appetizer
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black
If you're hosting a game day party, this pulled pork appetizer is a must-have. The combination of tender pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and beer can chicken make for a delicious and hearty appetizer that'll have your guests coming back for more. Serve it with some crusty bread or tortilla chips for the perfect game day snack.
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Fried Green Tomato and Pimento Cheese Slab Pie
Main Ingredients: Ritz Crackers, Unsalted Butter, Cheese Spread, All
If you love the combination of fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese, you'll love this slab pie. The buttery Ritz cracker crust is the perfect base for the tangy pimento cheese and crispy fried green tomatoes. And when you add beer can chicken to the mix, it takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
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Ritzy Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Eggs, Milk, Ritz Crackers, Minced
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level. With a buttery Ritz cracker topping and the addition of beer can chicken, this meatloaf is packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it with some mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.
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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Eggs
If you're a fan of the famous Cracker Barrel meatloaf, you'll love this homemade version. The combination of ground beef, Ritz crackers, and beer can chicken creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf that's sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with some mac and cheese and cornbread for the full Cracker Barrel experience.
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Cheesy Southern Yellow Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Yellow Squash, Kosher Salt, Bacon, Bacon Grease
This cheesy yellow squash casserole is a great way to use up any excess squash from your garden or farmer's market haul. The combination of tender squash, creamy cheese sauce, and beer can chicken is a match made in heaven. It's the perfect side dish for any summer BBQ or potluck dinner.
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Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Chuck, Salt, Pepper, Eggs, Onion
If you're looking for a classic meatloaf recipe with a twist, try adding beer can chicken to the mix. The combination of ground beef, Ritz crackers, and tender chicken creates a delicious and unique meatloaf that's sure to impress. Serve it with some mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetable for a complete meal.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Cream Cheese, Cottage Cheese, Sour Cream
This chicken casserole is loaded with flavor and sure to please a crowd. With layers of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, it's the ultimate comfort food. And when you add beer can chicken to the mix, it becomes a million-dollar dish that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
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Easy Asparagus Casserole
Main Ingredients: Asparagus, Mayonnaise, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Onion
Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that's perfect for springtime meals. This easy casserole combines tender asparagus, creamy cheese sauce, and beer can chicken for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Serve it as a side dish or add some cooked chicken for a complete meal.
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Cracker Barrel Copycat Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, Ritz Crackers, Chopped Onion, Sharp Cheddar
If you're a fan of Cracker Barrel's meatloaf, you'll love this copycat recipe. The combination of ground beef, Ritz crackers, and beer can chicken creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf that's just like the original. Serve it with some mashed potatoes and green beans for a true Cracker Barrel experience.
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Magic Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Eggs, Olive Oil, Onions, Milk, Ritz
This magical meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. With a buttery Ritz cracker topping and the addition of beer can chicken, it's packed with flavor and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Squash, Onion, Eggs, Cheddar Cheese
Squash casserole is a classic Southern dish that's perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners. This recipe adds beer can chicken to the mix for an extra boost of flavor and protein. It's a great way to use up any excess squash from your garden and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
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Mixed Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Frozen Mixed Vegetables, Vegetables, Colby Jack Cheese
This mixed vegetable casserole is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in one delicious dish. With a creamy cheese sauce and tender beer can chicken, it's a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge.
The Importance of Ritz Crackers in Southern Meatloaf
What sets southern meatloaf apart from others?
Southern meatloaf is known for its simplicity and the use of familiar and comforting ingredients. While many meatloaf recipes call for breadcrumbs, southern meatloaf takes it up a notch by using Ritz crackers. These crackers not only add a delicious buttery flavor, but they also provide a crunchy texture that elevates the dish. The use of Ritz crackers in southern meatloaf is a tradition that has been passed down for years and continues to be a staple in southern cooking.
How do Ritz crackers enhance the flavor and texture of meatloaf?
The key to a delicious meatloaf is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of Ritz crackers in the southern meatloaf recipe accomplishes just that. The crackers are crushed into small pieces and mixed into the meat mixture, adding a subtle buttery taste throughout the meat. When baked, the crackers also create a crispy and crunchy crust on the outside, while keeping the inside moist and tender. This perfect contrast of textures is what makes southern meatloaf with Ritz crackers a standout dish.
How to Make Southern Meatloaf with Ritz Crackers
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup ketchup
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, milk, ketchup, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Additional Tips:
To add even more flavor, you can mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the meat mixture.
If you prefer a tangier taste, you can substitute the ketchup in the recipe with BBQ sauce.
Leftover meatloaf makes for a delicious sandwich the next day. Simply slice and serve between two slices of bread with your favorite toppings.
In conclusion, the use of Ritz crackers in southern meatloaf is what makes this dish a true southern classic. The buttery flavor and crispy texture add a unique twist to the traditional meatloaf, making it a favorite among many. So next time you're craving a comforting and delicious meal, try out this southern meatloaf recipe with Ritz crackers and experience the true taste of the South.
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