Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup salted soda crackers, crushed
• 1 cup ketchup

Meatloaf Topping

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses or honey
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard

Note: This makes a generous, sweet meatloaf topping. Use as much or as little as your family prefers.

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400F.
2. Add the ground beef, onion, eggs, crushed crackers and ketchup to a large mixing bowl.
3. Gently mix until the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Divide between two small loaf pans or shape into one larger loaf, depending on the size and shape you prefer.
5. Bake until the meatloaf is nearly cooked through.
6. While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the brown sugar, ketchup, molasses or honey, barbecue sauce and mustard.
7. Carefully drain excess grease if needed, then spread the topping over the meatloaf.
8. Return to the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the topping is hot.
9. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Adjust the Topping

The flavor and thickness of the glaze can vary depending on the ketchup and barbecue sauce you use. If it is too thick, stir in a little extra ketchup or honey. If it tastes too sweet, add a little more mustard. If it is too tangy, add a small amount of brown sugar.

Kids Cooking Tip: Kids can crush the crackers in a sealed bag, measure the topping ingredients and stir the glaze together while an adult handles the raw meat and hot pan.