Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. This recipe stands out with its juicy ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a mouthwatering blend of spices and cheeses. The sweet and savory glaze takes it over the top, making it a dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meatloaf in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and Ritz crackers creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners or as a meal prep option for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks; everyone will want seconds!
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe brings back nostalgic flavors that remind you of home cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures your meatloaf retains its shape while baking, giving it that perfect slice.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess; larger bowls help in mixing everything thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements leads to better flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is even better than the original. Made with ground beef, onions, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, Ritz crackers and a sweet, savory glaze on top!

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 small finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
• 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 1/2 sleeves)
• 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze

• 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Mix well and set aside for later use as the topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, diced onion, optional bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Ground Beef

Add in the lean ground beef. Mix gently just to combine all ingredients—be careful not to over mix as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove it from the oven and spread your prepared glaze over the top. Return it to bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes or until the center reaches 155 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your meatloaf cool for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Serving your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is an opportunity to get creative and make the meal even more delightful. Pair it with various sides and garnishes for a complete dining experience.

Classic Comfort Plate

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with butter complement the meatloaf perfectly.
• Green Beans: Seasoned green beans add a fresh crunch and balance the dish’s richness.

Sandwich Delight

• Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice leftover meatloaf and serve on bread with ketchup or aioli for a tasty sandwich.
• Pickles: Add crunchy pickles for an extra layer of flavor in your meatloaf sandwich.

Family Style Presentation

• Salad: A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory meatloaf.

How to Perfect Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Perfecting your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf takes just a few tweaks to elevate its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always a hit.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf moist without excess fat.
• Don’t Over Mix: Combine ingredients gently to avoid a dense texture; over mixing can lead to tough meatloaf.
• Add Aromatics: Enhance the flavor by adding garlic or herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking; adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking; this helps retain moisture when slicing.
• Check Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that work wonderfully together.

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition, making the plate vibrant.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream or chives as a comforting side.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a beloved classic that pairs well with hearty dishes like meatloaf.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and fiber without overpowering the meal.
6. Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf cooked with herbs offers a nice contrast in texture to the meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Cracker Barrel Meatloaf can be challenging if you don’t avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meatloaf: Mixing too much can make your meatloaf tough. Combine ingredients just until mixed for a tender result.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements, especially for the Ritz crackers and ketchup. This ensures the texture and flavor are just right.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the meatloaf to cool for 15 minutes before slicing helps it hold its shape. Skipping this step can lead to a crumbled mess.
• Using low-quality beef: Always opt for lean ground beef for better flavor and texture. Higher quality beef yields a more delicious meatloaf.
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking. An uncalibrated oven can affect cooking times and results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap slices in foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe special?

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with cheese and Ritz crackers, creating a unique flavor and texture that sets it apart from traditional meatloafs.

Can I customize the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, swap ground beef for turkey, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to prepare this meatloaf?

The total time is about 1 hour and 25 minutes, which includes prep time of 15 minutes and cook time of up to 1 hour.

What should I serve with my Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw to complete your meal.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a heartwarming twist on the classic dish, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. This recipe combines juicy ground beef with vibrant vegetables and a delicious blend of spices and cheeses, creating a flavor that is irresistible. Topped with a sweet and savory glaze, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit at your table. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy a slice of nostalgia with every bite!

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
• 48 Ritz crackers, crushed
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• Ketchup, brown sugar, mustard (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a bowl for the glaze; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Gently mix in the ground beef until just combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Spread the glaze over the meatloaf and return to the oven for another 30-40 minutes until cooked through.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 113g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Use lean ground beef to maintain moisture without excess fat. Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking for better slicing. For added flavor variations, consider incorporating minced garlic or fresh herbs.