Irresistible Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe to Savor

The aroma of a freshly baked cracker barrel meatloaf fills the kitchen, wafting through the air like a warm hug on a cold evening. Each slice offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet, with just the right amount of glaze to keep your taste buds dancing.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they thought I had suddenly transformed into a gourmet chef. The joy on their faces as they dug in was priceless, and it quickly became our go-to comfort food for family gatherings and cozy nights in.

I still chuckle at how my dog, Charlie, attempted to sneak a bite when I wasn’t looking – clearly, he knew it was something special.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf without excess fat dripping away while cooking.

• Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and bind everything together nicely.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs act as an excellent binder; don’t skip this essential ingredient!

• Ketchup: This adds moisture and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meatloaf.

• Onion: Chopped onions bring a savory depth; sautéing them first makes them sweeter and more aromatic.

• Seasonings: Customize with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even Worcestershire sauce for added complexity.

• Bell Peppers: Adding diced bell peppers contributes texture and color; green or red both work beautifully.

• Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar in the glaze creates that irresistible caramelized finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking throughout your meatloaf.

Sauté Onions and Peppers: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until soft—about 5 minutes—until they become fragrant and translucent.

Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf about 2 inches thick for optimal cooking.

Add Your Glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup with brown sugar to create your glaze. Spread it generously over the top of your shaped meatloaf for that sweet finish.

Bake Away!: Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about one hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Now you’re all set! Serve this delightful cracker barrel meatloaf alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for the ultimate comfort meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the meat and seasonings thoroughly. Shape it into a loaf and bake at 350°F for about an hour for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also top it with BBQ sauce for a sweet twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to keep it moist.

Creating my first Cracker Barrel meatloaf was like a culinary rite of passage; my family devoured it, claiming I had unlocked some secret recipe magic.

FAQ

What is the best meat combination for Cracker Barrel meatloaf?

Using a mix of ground beef and pork enhances flavor and texture.

Can I make Cracker Barrel meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate before baking.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?

Ensure you don’t overmix and add moisture with ingredients like milk or broth.

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a comforting classic that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With its rich glaze and tender texture, this meatloaf is sure to impress both your loved ones and guests alike. Easy to prepare, it’s a versatile meal that pairs beautifully with various sides, ensuring satisfaction at every table.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (green or red)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers over medium heat for about 5 minutes until soft.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
5. For the glaze, mix ketchup with brown sugar and spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for approximately one hour until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Author: James
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (115g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 85mg