In a small bowl combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix them well until you have a smooth sauce. This will be the topping for your meatloaf, adding a flavorful glaze.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to get the oven nice and hot so the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step makes for easy cleanup later and helps with the removal of the meatloaf once it’s done baking.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs well. Then, add in the crushed Ritz crackers, onion, green pepper, milk, salt, and the drained diced tomatoes. Mix everything together thoroughly. You want to ensure that each ingredient is well distributed.
Now, add the ground chuck to the mixture. It’s best to do this gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined.
Turn out the meatloaf mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it’s even. This helps it cook uniformly.
Spread the topping that you made earlier on top of the meatloaf. Make sure to cover it evenly; this will caramelize nicely during baking.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. At this point, you'll start to smell the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen.
After 30 minutes, take the meatloaf out and check its center temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safety. If it’s not there yet, bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, making for moist slices. After it rests, slice and serve it warm.
