1-First: preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your loaf pan by greasing it lightly. This helps the meatloaf release easily after baking.

2-Next: sauté the diced peppers and onions in ½ tablespoon olive oil until they soften, which takes about 5 minutes, then let them cool to avoid cooking the meat too fast.

3-In a large bowl, combine the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, sautéed onions and bell peppers, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, whole milk, salt, and pepper. Mix these gently to blend the flavors without overdoing it. Add the 2 pounds of ground beef and stir until just combined, keeping the meat tender as you shape it into a loaf in the pan.

4-Bake the loaf for 30 minutes, then prepare the topping by mixing ½ to ¾ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon yellow mustard. Brush this evenly over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for another 30 to 40 minutes, until it hits 155 degrees internal temperature. Let it rest in the pan for 15 minutes so the juices settle and the temperature rises to a safe 160 degrees before slicing and serving.