Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting, homestyle dish that captures the essence of traditional Southern cooking, just like the version served at the beloved restaurant. This meatloaf is made with a blend of ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and a mix of cracker crumbs and eggs that help keep it moist and flavorful. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it’s baked to perfection, creating a tender, juicy interior with a caramelized, slightly crispy crust. Ideal for family dinners, this meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese. With its savory taste and easy preparation, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite that brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 12 crackers)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a small skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape it evenly.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Pour the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish!
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Southern comfort to your kitchen. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a beloved dish for family dinners and special occasions alike.
