Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: the ultimate comfort food that tastes just like home, even if you’re miles away from your mama’s kitchen! Have you ever craved that classic, savory, slightly sweet meatloaf that evokes memories of cozy family dinners? Well, look no further! This recipe perfectly recreates the iconic Cracker Barrel version, bringing that nostalgic flavor right to your table.

Meatloaf itself has a rich history, evolving from humble beginnings as a way to use leftover meats. It gained immense popularity in America during the Great Depression as an affordable and filling meal. Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle cooking and Southern charm, has elevated this classic dish to an art form. Their meatloaf is a testament to simple ingredients combined with love and care.

What makes Cracker Barrel Meatloaf so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory ground beef, sweet tomato glaze, and a hint of herbs and spices. The texture is tender and moist, never dry or crumbly. People adore it because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a dish that brings people together, creating warm memories with every bite. Plus, it’s fantastic for leftovers – meatloaf sandwiches, anyone? Let’s get cooking and recreate this beloved classic!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• For the Glaze:
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to create the base for our amazing meatloaf. This is where all the delicious flavors come together, so pay close attention.

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil). Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial because it mellows out the raw flavors of the vegetables and adds a depth of flavor to the meatloaf. Don’t rush this step!
2. Cool the Vegetables: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the vegetables cool slightly. You don’t want to add hot vegetables to the meat mixture, as it can partially cook the meat and affect the texture.
3. Prepare the Cracker Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and milk. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the crackers to soften and absorb the milk. This will help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist.
4. Combine the Ingredients: In the same large bowl (with the cracker mixture), add the ground beef, ground pork, cooled sautéed vegetables, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, thyme, sage, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
5. Mix Gently: Now, this is important: gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing will result in a tough meatloaf. You want everything to be evenly distributed, but avoid working the meat too much.

Shaping and Preparing for Baking:

Now that we have our meatloaf mixture ready, it’s time to shape it and get it ready for the oven. Proper shaping is key to even cooking.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a loaf pan. I prefer the baking dish because it allows for more surface area for the glaze to caramelize.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s evenly thick. You can either form one large loaf or two smaller loaves, depending on your preference and the size of your baking dish.

Making the Glaze:

The glaze is what really sets this meatloaf apart. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meat perfectly. Don’t skip this step!

1. Combine the Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard until well combined.

Baking the Meatloaf:

Now for the main event! Baking the meatloaf requires patience, but the end result is well worth the wait.

1. Apply Half the Glaze: Pour about half of the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly over the top and sides.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
3. Apply Remaining Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and pour the remaining glaze over the top, spreading it evenly.
4. Continue Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Resting and Serving:

This is a crucial step that many people overlook. Resting the meatloaf allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

1. Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve hot.
3. Serving Suggestions: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is delicious served with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or your favorite side dishes. A dollop of extra ketchup on the side is always a welcome addition!

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese into the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
• Use Different Crackers: Experiment with different types of crackers, such as saltines or club crackers, for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms, into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Use Different Ground Meat: While the recipe calls for ground beef and pork, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats tend to cook faster.
• Make Mini Meatloaves: Instead of one large meatloaf, divide the mixture into individual muffin tins for mini meatloaves. This is a great option for portion control and quick weeknight meals. Reduce the baking time accordingly.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf slices for easy meal prep.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf as much as I do! It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just meatloaf; it’s a comforting, nostalgic hug on a plate. The Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe we’ve explored today is more than just ground beef and seasonings; it’s a journey back to simpler times, to family dinners and the warm, inviting atmosphere of a beloved country store. It’s a must-try because it delivers on flavor, texture, and that undeniable feeling of home-cooked goodness that we all crave. The perfectly balanced blend of savory ingredients, the subtle sweetness, and the moist, tender texture make it a standout among meatloaf recipes. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds! But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While it’s fantastic served traditionally with mashed potatoes and green beans (a classic for a reason!), don’t be afraid to experiment. For a heartier meal, try pairing it with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider making meatloaf sandwiches the next day! Sliced thinly and served on toasted bread with your favorite condiments, it’s a lunch that’s sure to impress. Looking for variations? You’ve got options! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or incorporate some chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, substitute brown sugar for the ketchup in the topping. You can also customize the vegetables you include in the meatloaf itself. Diced bell peppers, onions, and celery are classic choices, but feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. And don’t forget the gravy! A rich, savory gravy elevates this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf to a whole new level of deliciousness. You can use the pan drippings to create a simple gravy, or opt for a store-bought version if you’re short on time. Either way, a generous drizzle of gravy over the meatloaf and mashed potatoes is the perfect finishing touch. I truly believe that this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers exceptional results every time. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade meatloaf. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and most importantly, what your family thought of it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover the joy of cooking this delicious dish. Happy cooking!

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