Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish, packed with classic homestyle flavors. This meatloaf is known for its tender texture, rich taste, and a slightly sweet glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic meal or looking for a satisfying dinner option, this recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Crushed Ritz crackers
• Eggs
• Milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped onion
• Chopped green bell pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Yellow mustard

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to create the glaze.
5. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
6. Bake for about 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top.
7. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Swap the crackers: Use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of Ritz crackers for a different texture.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Use different cheese: Try pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar.
• Glaze alternatives: Experiment with BBQ sauce or a mix of honey and Dijon mustard for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

Use the right ratio of binding ingredients like eggs and crackers to hold the mixture together.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the meatloaf and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread, or mac and cheese pair well with this dish.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. You may need to adjust seasoning.

Why do I need to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Resting helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and easier to slice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Grated carrots or celery can add extra flavor and moisture.

Is it necessary to use cheddar cheese?

Cheddar adds flavor and moisture, but you can skip it or replace it with another cheese.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

Shape the meatloaf on a lined baking sheet and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a beloved comfort food classic. Whether served fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, this dish is sure to please. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a homemade meal that tastes just like the restaurant favorite!

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