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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a classic, comforting dish packed with savory flavors and a sweet, tangy glaze. Made with ground beef, finely chopped vegetables, crushed Ritz crackers, and cheddar cheese, it’s baked to perfection and topped with a delicious ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard glaze. Perfect for family dinners, this meatloaf is moist, flavorful, easy to prepare, and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

  • 1 Tablespoon oil
  • 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Prepare your baking vessel by lining a baking sheet with foil or a traditional loaf pan with parchment paper, which helps in lifting the meatloaf and draining grease later.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Swirl to coat the pan then add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and onions translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
  3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly mix and evenly combine all ingredients.
  4. Shape and Bake: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
  5. Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
  6. Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
  7. Rest and Drain: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. Use the parchment paper to carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan, allowing excess grease to drain back into the pan.
  8. Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve while warm. Enjoy this comforting classic with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Using parchment paper in a loaf pan helps remove the meatloaf easily and drains excess grease.
  • Make sure to let the sautéed vegetables cool slightly before mixing with eggs to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety; the meatloaf should reach 155º F.
  • Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps retain juices and ensures cleaner slices.
  • Crushed Ritz crackers add moisture and a slight buttery flavor; you can substitute with breadcrumbs if preferred.

Keywords: meatloaf, Cracker Barrel style, classic meatloaf, baked meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef, dinner

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/cracker-barrel-meatloaf-recipe/