Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. This homestyle classic captures the essence of comfort food, featuring a flavorful blend of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and seasonings, all baked to perfection. Whether served as a hearty weeknight dinner or showcased at gatherings with loved ones, this timeless dish is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia with every savory bite.

Why You’ll Love For Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe:

Our Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a beloved favorite for its deliciously satisfying flavors and simple preparation. The combination of tender ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and savory seasonings creates a dish that’s both comforting and familiar, reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared around the family table. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete homestyle meal.

Personal Story: Growing up, Cracker Barrel was a favorite dining destination for our family, where we indulged in hearty comfort food and warm hospitality. One dish that always stood out to me was their signature meatloaf—a timeless classic that never failed to delight. Inspired by those cherished memories, I set out to recreate the flavors of Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf at home, perfecting the recipe until it matched the taste and texture of the original. Now, I’m thrilled to share my version of this beloved dish with you, so you too can experience the joy of homestyle cooking right in your own kitchen.

Key Features:

• Tender ground beef
• Aromatic onions and bell peppers
• Flavorful seasonings
• Homestyle comfort in every bite

What i need to make Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard

How To Make Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly into the pan.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
5. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, garnished with additional glaze if desired.
9. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with your favorite sides and loved ones.

Cooking Tips For Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe:

• For extra flavor, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a skillet until softened before adding them to the meat mixture.
• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
• Customize the seasonings to your taste preferences by adding herbs like rosemary or sage, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Make sure to evenly distribute the meat mixture in the loaf pan to ensure even cooking.
• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a moist and tender texture.

Variations For Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe:

• Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Add a layer of bacon strips over the top of the meatloaf before baking for a smoky and indulgent twist.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Create a pocket in the center of the meatloaf and fill it with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a gooey surprise.
• Veggie-Packed Meatloaf: Mix in shredded carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to add extra moisture and nutrients to the meatloaf.

Make It Healthier:

• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs for added fiber.
• Substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to reduce the fat content.
• Increase the vegetable content by adding more onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the meat mixture.
• Serve the meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a mixed green salad for added nutrition.

Closing: Experience the comforting flavors of home with our Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. With its tender ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and savory seasonings, this timeless dish is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or served at gatherings with loved ones, our Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a classic favorite that’s perfect for sharing and savoring together. Enjoy the homestyle comfort of this beloved dish and create lasting memories with every delicious slice.

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Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe:

Can I make this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the meatloaf from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.

Can I freeze leftover Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe?

Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf for later enjoyment. Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen meatloaf can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use different types of ground meat for this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of ground meat for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, such as ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly based on the type of meat used.

Can I make a larger batch of Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch of meatloaf. Simply adjust the ingredients accordingly and divide the mixture evenly between multiple loaf pans or baking dishes. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly for larger batches.

Can I make this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Be sure to check all other ingredients for hidden sources of gluten and choose certified gluten-free options when necessary.

Can I omit the eggs from the Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe?

While eggs help bind the meatloaf together and add moisture, you can omit them if needed. Try using a binding agent such as ground flaxseed mixed with water, mashed potatoes, or a commercial egg replacer to achieve a similar texture.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the glaze to suit your taste preferences. Add more or less brown sugar to the glaze mixture to achieve your desired level of sweetness. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Can I make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf?

Yes, you can portion the meat mixture into individual muffin cups or mini loaf pans to make mini meatloaves. Reduce the baking time accordingly, as mini meatloaves will cook faster than one large loaf. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer, ensuring an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup milk

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, beaten eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried sage. Mix until well combined.
• Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard to create the glaze.
• Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring an even coating.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Serve slices of meatloaf with your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting taste of home.