Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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 Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Description

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a homestyle comfort dish loved for its tender texture, rich flavor, and sweet glaze. This hearty loaf combines ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, onions, and bell peppers for that signature Southern taste. It’s baked to perfection and topped with a ketchup-brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Perfect for Sunday dinners or any night you crave comfort food!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped

  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 25 crackers)

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 3 large eggs, beaten

  • ½ cup milk

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

  2. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, cheese, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat.

  3. Shape loaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and shape into a loaf.

  4. Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.

  5. Bake: Spread half the glaze on top of the meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes.

  6. Add remaining glaze: Spread the rest of the glaze on top and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  7. Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture.

  • Substitute Ritz crackers with saltine crackers or breadcrumbs if desired.

  • For extra moisture, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce into the meat mixture.

  • Leftovers reheat wonderfully and make great sandwiches!

Tips

  • Don’t overmix: It can make the loaf tough—mix just until combined.

  • Line your pan: Makes cleanup much easier and helps the loaf keep its shape.

  • Add flavor: A dash of hot sauce or BBQ sauce in the glaze can add a little kick.

  • Let it rest: This helps the juices redistribute for perfect slices.

Servings

Makes about 6–8 servings.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380

  • Protein: 26g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 24g

  • Saturated Fat: 9g

  • Cholesterol: 135mg

  • Sodium: 540mg

  • Sugar: 7g
    (Values approximate and vary with ingredients used)

Health Benefits

  • High in protein to support muscle maintenance.

  • Cheddar and eggs add calcium and vitamin D.

  • Bell peppers and onions provide antioxidants and fiber.

  • Comfort food satisfaction: A hearty, balanced meal when paired with vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Q&A for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking or reheating.

Q3: What can I serve with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese make excellent sides.

Q4: Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great—just add a bit more moisture (like 2 tbsp olive oil or extra milk).

Q5: How do I keep it from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough binder (crackers, eggs, and cheese) and let it rest before slicing.

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