Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that combines tender, flavorful ground beef with a rich blend of seasonings and a sweet, tangy glaze. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this meatloaf stays moist, melts in your mouth, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or green beans. Recreate the restaurant favorite in your own kitchen with this easy, step-by-step recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup additional ketchup for glaze
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a lightly greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
JUST
Classic comfort food with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners.
Servings
6–8 servings
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sodium: 600 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Notes
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a softer texture.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to retain juices.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
Tips
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness.
- For a thicker glaze, reduce ketchup slightly and increase brown sugar.
Health Benefits
Meatloaf provides a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Using lean ground beef reduces fat content, while adding vegetables increases fiber and nutrients. The homemade glaze avoids preservatives and excess sodium found in store-bought sauces.
