Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting classic that combines savory beef with a cheesy, flavorful twist. This recipe features a sweet and tangy glaze that makes every bite irresistibly delicious. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon oil
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350º F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil, or if using a traditional loaf pan, line it with parchment paper to easily lift out the meatloaf after baking.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper for 5-6 minutes until soft and the onions are translucent. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, beaten eggs, cheddar cheese, milk, sautéed onion and bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix evenly.
4. Step 4: Shape the meat mixture and place it in the prepared pan.
5. Step 5: Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
6. Step 6: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to make the glaze.
7. Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
8. Step 8: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to carefully lift it from the pan, allowing any excess grease to drain back.
9. Step 9: Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
• Use seasoned crackers or add herbs like thyme or parsley for enhanced flavor.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• To make the glaze spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the crushed Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 155º F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 445 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe delivers a classic, comforting meatloaf with a savory blend of ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfectly baked for a juicy, flavorful main dish that slices easily and pairs well with your favorite sides.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 1 Tablespoon oil
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Prepare your baking equipment by lining a baking sheet with foil or lining a traditional loaf pan with parchment paper to allow easy lifting and grease drainage later.
2. Sauté vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and the onions are translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix evenly and thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated.
4. Shape and bake: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
5. Prepare glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
6. Glaze and finish baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after the initial 45 minutes. Spread the glaze evenly over the top, then return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
7. Rest and drain: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes outside the oven. Use the parchment paper to carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan, allowing excess grease to drain away before slicing.
8. Slice and serve: Cut the meatloaf into slices and serve warm with your choice of side dishes.

Notes

• Using parchment paper in a loaf pan helps to easily lift the meatloaf out and drain excess grease before slicing.
• Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 155º F for safe consumption, as ground beef requires full cooking.
• Feel free to customize the glaze with a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps maintain its juiciness and structural integrity.
• Substitute ground beef with a blend of beef and pork for added flavor complexity, if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: meatloaf, cracker barrel meatloaf, comfort food, baked meatloaf, ground beef recipe, glaze meatloaf