Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, meatloaf offers a deliciously hearty meal that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is a perfect blend of savory flavors, tender beef, and a tangy ketchup topping that makes it just as comforting as the one served at your favorite Southern restaurant.

This recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it ideal for busy days when you want a warm, home-cooked meal. With ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and a cooking time that’s just over an hour, this meatloaf can be ready to enjoy with little effort. The combination of beef, vegetables, and breadcrumbs creates a moist and flavorful loaf, while the tomato sauce and ketchup topping bring just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess.

If you’re craving a dish that brings a sense of nostalgia and fills your home with an irresistible aroma, this Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. With tender, flavorful ground beef mixed with fresh vegetables, breadcrumbs, and a perfect blend of seasonings, it delivers on both taste and texture. The addition of tomato sauce and ketchup creates a delicious glaze on top that makes each bite even more irresistible. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity, using ingredients that are easy to find while still giving you a homemade taste that will remind you of your favorite classic diner dishes.

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing a hearty meal for guests, this meatloaf is a guaranteed hit. It’s also an excellent dish for meal prep, as it holds up well for leftovers and can be enjoyed for several days.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Green pepper, chopped
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Tomato sauce
• Ketchup
• Salt
• Pepper

Variations

While this Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes:

• Add Herbs and Spices: For added flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of dried oregano, basil, or thyme into the meat mixture.
• Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture for a cheesy twist that will melt inside the loaf.
• Vegetables: You can mix in other vegetables, such as finely grated carrots or zucchini, to make the meatloaf even more nutritious.
• BBQ Sauce Topping: Swap the ketchup topping for barbecue sauce for a smoky and tangy flavor that adds a unique twist to the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the meatloaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not too sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it is evenly shaped to ensure it cooks uniformly.

Step 4: Add the Ketchup Topping

Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will add a flavorful glaze and help keep the loaf moist while baking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The meatloaf should be golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner meatloaf, choose 90% lean ground beef. This will result in less grease and a healthier version of the dish.
• Do Not Overmix: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to help the meatloaf come out of the dish more easily.
• Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.

How to Serve

Cracker Barrel meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. For a hearty meal, serve it with cornbread or a side salad to balance out the richness of the meatloaf. You can also serve it with additional ketchup or gravy on the side for added flavor.

If you have leftovers, meatloaf makes a great sandwich the next day. Simply place a slice of meatloaf between two slices of bread and top with your favorite condiments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the meatloaf has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or reheat the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

Freezing

Meatloaf freezes well for future meals. Once it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat the meatloaf, place slices on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If you prefer to use the microwave, cover the meatloaf with a microwave-safe lid and heat for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Just keep in mind that lean meats may require additional seasoning or moisture.

2. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Adding grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and moisture.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make this recipe gluten-free.

5. Can I use a meatloaf pan instead of a baking dish?

Yes, using a meatloaf pan is perfectly fine. It will give the loaf a more uniform shape and allow the juices to drain away while baking.

6. What can I use instead of ketchup for the topping?

You can use barbecue sauce or a combination of ketchup and mustard for a tangier flavor.

7. How can I make the meatloaf spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture to add a kick of spice.

8. Can I freeze meatloaf before cooking?

Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

9. What should the internal temperature of the meatloaf be?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked.

10. How do I make my meatloaf more moist?

Adding ingredients like eggs, breadcrumbs, and vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini will help keep the meatloaf moist.

Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is a delicious, comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a salad, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers or as a meal prep option for busy days ahead. Enjoy!

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