Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Inspired by Cracker Barrel’s famous version, this meatloaf recipe is a delightful blend of savory ground beef.
zesty seasonings, and a sweet glaze that creates the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner.
holiday meal, or just craving something hearty, this meatloaf will undoubtedly become a favorite.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (preferably 80/20)
1 cup (100g) crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)
½ cup (120ml) milk
2 large eggs
½ cup (80g) finely chopped onion
½ cup (80g) finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup (120ml) ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready for your meatloaf.
Next, in a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, milk, eggs, chopped onion, and optional green bell pepper.
The bell pepper adds a burst of color and flavor, but if you prefer a simpler version, you can omit it.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano into the mixture.
Stir everything together gently, ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated without overworking the meat.
Once everything is mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it into a greased baking dish or a lined sheet pan. This will allow the meatloaf to cook evenly and maintain its shape.
In a separate bowl, prepare the glaze by whisking together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. The combination of sweet and tangy will create the perfect finish for your meatloaf.
Pour the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it out evenly. The glaze will caramelize while cooking, giving the meatloaf a beautiful, shiny finish.
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensuring the meatloaf stays moist.
How to Make
To make the perfect Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf, follow these easy steps for a meal that’s sure to impress. The key to a juicy meatloaf is in the right balance of moisture.
The combination of milk, crackers, and eggs works together to create a tender texture without making it soggy.
Start by mixing all your ingredients in a bowl, but be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.
It’s important to combine the ingredients just until they hold together, ensuring the meatloaf stays light and tender.
The glaze is what takes this recipe to the next level. By applying the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard mixture, you create a sticky.
caramelized crust that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat. Don’t be afraid to slather on a generous amount – it’s what makes the meatloaf extra delicious.
Once the meatloaf is baked, let it sit for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps prevent the juices from running out and keeps.
the meatloaf moist throughout. Slicing too early can cause it to fall apart, so a little patience goes a long way.
Serve your meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a well-rounded.
comforting meal. The leftovers also make for great sandwiches, so be sure to save some for the next day!
Variations
If you’re looking for a slight twist on the classic recipe, you can experiment with different ingredients. For a spicier version.
try adding a tablespoon of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture. This will give your meatloaf a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
To make the dish even more cheesy, you can add extra cheese to the meat mixture. Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella, or try a combination of both for a gooey, cheesy interior.
For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. While it won’t have quite.
the same rich flavor as beef, adding extra spices or even a little extra cheese can help enhance the taste.
You could also experiment with different types of crackers or breadcrumbs. Try using crushed saltine crackers.
panko breadcrumbs, or even Italian-style breadcrumbs to change up the texture and flavor slightly.
For a more vegetable-forward meatloaf, increase the amount of onions and bell peppers, or add mushrooms and carrots.
for added moisture and flavor. The vegetables will also help the meatloaf stay tender and juicy.
If you prefer a more traditional glaze, substitute the ketchup for tomato paste and adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup.
The mustard can be swapped with a balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will create a crunchy top that adds a bit of texture to the soft meatloaf.
Tips
For an extra moist meatloaf, don’t skip the milk and crackers. They help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out during baking. Be sure to use full-fat milk for the best results.
If you’re unsure about the seasoning, feel free to taste the mixture before shaping it into a loaf. You can adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to suit your preference.
For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet or pan with parchment paper or foil before baking. This will make it much easier to remove the meatloaf once it’s done.
Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, making sure every slice is moist and flavorful.
To freeze the meatloaf for later, prepare it as you normally would but don’t bake it. Instead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
then freeze. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
If you’re pressed for time, make mini meatloafs using muffin tins. They cook faster than a traditional loaf and can be served individually.
Consider serving your meatloaf with mashed potatoes or a simple salad for a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is an easy, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
The combination of tender ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, and a sweet and tangy glaze makes it a surefire hit with everyone at the table.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this comforting classic is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Simple ingredients, easy instructions, and endless variations make this meatloaf a go-to dish that everyone will love.