Nothing saves a weeknight like our million dollar meatloaf.

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

What makes our million dollar meatloaf so good?

Ritz crackers and evaporated milk make it taste rich.

Million Dollar Meatloaf - Southern Living

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

But the real star?

A favorite Southern ingredient:pepper jelly.

Why Is It Called Million Dollar Meatloaf?

ingredients for Million Dollar Meatloaf

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

This extra fat will help keep your meatloaf from drying out and becoming tough as it bakes.

Make the meatloaf as directed, and cool to room temperature.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Million Dollar Meatloaf

Refrigerate leftover meatloaf for up to four days.

baking plan covered in aluminum foil

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated 350F oven until hot throughout before serving.

you might also reheat small portions on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Consider adding a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the meat from drying out.

Meatloaf shaped on a baking dish

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

What To Serve With Million Dollar Meatloaf

Serve million dollar meatloaf withgreen beansandmashed potatoesfor a classic pairing.

Line a sheet pan with foil; coat foil with cooking spray.

Add beef to bowl; mix well (with hands) to combine.

ketchup and red pepper jelly mixed together

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Turn beef mixture out onto prepared pan and shape into a 9 x 4-inch freeform loaf.

Bake meatloaf:

Bake at 350F for 35 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together ketchup and pepper jelly in a medium bowl.

ketchup spread on meatloaf

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Brush on ketchup mixture:

Remove meatloaf from oven (leave oven on).

At this point, you’re able to pat away drippings and cooked proteins from around the meatloaf.

Spread ketchup mixture over meatloaf and return to oven.

baked meatloaf

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Bake until a thermometer inserted in center registers 165F, about 30 minutes.

Remove meatloaf from oven and let stand 5 minutes.

Cut into 12 slices.