Cracker Barrel Meatloaf A Classic Homestyle Delight

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: A Classic Homestyle Delight

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that brings the taste of classic Southern cooking right to your table. This dish features a rich, flavorful blend of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and a signature glaze that creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a special meal for guests, this hearty meatloaf will satisfy everyone’s cravings. With a moist, tender texture and a delicious caramelized topping, this homemade version of the famous Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (for glaze)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, and crushed Ritz crackers. Mix until evenly distributed.
  3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly to remove any air pockets. Shape it into a compact loaf.
  5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Stir until smooth.
  6. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf before placing it in the oven.
  7. Bake the meatloaf for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and enhances the flavor.
  10. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a complete Southern-style meal.

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