Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: 5-Star Comfort Food Made Easy

Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a beloved comfort food classic, and now you can recreate it at home! This recipe uses simple ingredients like Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sweet-and-tangy glaze to deliver that iconic flavor. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or green beans for a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect Cracker Barrel meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef
• ½ cup diced yellow onion
• ½ cup diced bell pepper
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ½ to ¾ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

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Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and develop a nice crust on the outside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened. This step is crucial because it helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and ensures they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf.

3. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, whisked eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined. Then, add the ground beef and gently fold it into the mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

4. Shape and Place in a Loaf Pan:
Once the mixture is well combined, form it into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan. This helps the meatloaf hold its shape and ensures it cooks evenly. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the mixture into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet.

5. Bake and Glaze:
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. While it’s baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).

6. Let It Rest:
Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe so special? For starters, it’s the unique combination of ingredients that sets it apart. The use of Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs gives the meatloaf a buttery, slightly crumbly texture that’s incredibly satisfying. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a layer of richness, while the sautéed onions and bell peppers ensure the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful. The glaze, made with ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, adds a sweet and tangy finish that ties everything together.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, you can use a mix of ground meats, such as beef, or veal, to create a more complex flavor profile. You can also adjust the glaze to be sweeter or tangier, depending on your preferences.

For a lighter yet equally satisfying option, this nutritious Salmon Bowl Recipe is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) before serving.
• Absorb Excess Grease: Place a few slices of bread under the loaf while baking to absorb any excess grease. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist without making it greasy.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

This Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich flavor of the meatloaf perfectly.
• Roasted Carrots or Green Beans: These vegetables add a touch of freshness and color to your plate.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: For an added touch of Southern comfort, serve the meatloaf with warm buttermilk biscuits.

For a classic comfort food option, check out this Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Nutritional Information For the Cracker Barrel meatloaf

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this Cracker Barrel meatloaf:

• Calories: 445
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

This meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!

FAQs About Cracker Barrel meatloaf

Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven.

What Other Meats Can I Use?
While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can also use a mix of ground beef, and veal for a more tender and flavorful loaf.

Do I Need to Sauté the Vegetables?
Yes, sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the meatloaf mixture ensures they are soft and flavorful. This step also helps to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dense.

Conclusion: A Homestyle Classic Worth Making

In conclusion, this Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food. With its unique use of Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sweet-and-tangy glaze, it’s a flavorful twist on a traditional favorite. The sautéed onions and bell peppers not only add depth of flavor but also ensure the meatloaf stays moist and tender. The simple preparation makes it an easy yet impressive dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

When served with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or buttermilk biscuits, this meatloaf becomes a complete, hearty meal that everyone will love. So why not bring a taste of Cracker Barrel into your own kitchen? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a homemade dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this!