A Comfort Food Favorite

Introduction

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, hearty meatloaf fresh out of the oven. If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their meatloaf is something special—juicy, flavorful, and topped with a perfectly tangy glaze. Now, you can bring that same homestyle goodness to your kitchen with this easy-to-follow Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving some nostalgic comfort food, this recipe is perfect for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Taste: This recipe closely replicates the beloved Cracker Barrel meatloaf, delivering a savory and tender bite every time.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is great for both beginner and seasoned home cooks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit dietary preferences, making this recipe versatile and adaptable.

Ingredients

To make the best homemade Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf, you’ll need:

2 lbs 90% lean ground beef
½ white onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
3 eggs, beaten
⅓ cup milk
½ cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons mustard

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large mixing bowl
Medium-sized bowl
Loaf pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or fork
Knife and cutting board
Small mixing bowl for glaze
Oven mitts

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with a little oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, shredded cheddar, onions, red bell pepper, garlic, and parsley until well combined.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the meat and gently mix until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture into the greased loaf pan and shape it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, uncovered.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

While the meatloaf is baking, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.

Step 5: Glaze and Bake Again

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.

Tips and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

Meat: You can use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: Swap out seasoned breadcrumbs for panko or crushed crackers for a different texture.
Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
Glaze: For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
Refrigeration: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for a quick meal.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Pair your meatloaf with classic sides to make a well-rounded meal:

Mashed Potatoes and Gravy – A creamy and comforting side.
Green Beans or Steamed Vegetables – Adds a healthy balance to your plate.
Mac and Cheese – For an extra indulgent Southern-style meal.
Cornbread – A slightly sweet and crumbly companion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

2. Why is my meatloaf falling apart?

This could be due to overmixing or not enough binding ingredients. Ensure you have enough eggs and breadcrumbs to help hold everything together.

3. How can I make the meatloaf juicier?

Using 90% lean ground beef provides a balance of flavor and moisture. If using leaner meat, adding a little olive oil or extra cheese can help retain juiciness.

4. Can I cook this meatloaf without a loaf pan?

Absolutely! You can shape the meatloaf by hand and bake it on a lined baking sheet for a more rustic look.

5. How do I know when my meatloaf is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Share Your Thoughts!

If you tried this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious home-cooked meals. Happy cooking!

Classic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe