Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe​

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is a classic comfort food, loved by many. This easy and delicious Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe brings that restaurant favorite right to your home kitchen. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner any night of the week. Explore other beef recipes here. While nothing beats the original, this homemade version of the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe comes pretty close! You’ll be surprised how easy it is to recreate this comforting dish with simple ingredients. Get ready for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is Special

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe isn’t just your average meatloaf. The blend of ground beef and pork creates a wonderfully tender and flavorful loaf. What truly sets this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf apart is the savory glaze, a perfect complement to the rich meatloaf. The sweet and tangy glaze adds a burst of flavor that makes this dish truly unforgettable.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Meatloaf Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• ½ pound ground pork (adds flavor and moisture)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ½ cup milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
• 1 large egg (helps bind the mixture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (adds flavor and texture)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (enhances the savory notes)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (enhances the overall flavor)

Glaze Ingredients

• ¾ cup ketchup (provides a tangy base)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (adds sweetness and caramelization)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (balances the sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (brightens the glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Follow these easy steps to make a delicious Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This will prevent the meatloaf from sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

1. Gently mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. It’s okay if a few small streaks of breadcrumbs are still visible. For more ground meat recipes, check out this collection of ground chicken recipes. This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a classic!

Shaping and Baking the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

1. Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan. You can create a classic domed shape or pat it down evenly.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf to accurately check the temperature. This ensures a perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat meatloaf.
3. About 15 minutes before the meatloaf is done, start preparing the glaze.

Making the Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze begins to thicken slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t let it boil vigorously.
3. Once the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C), remove it from the oven and pour the glaze evenly over the top. For a deeper understanding of meatloaf cooking techniques, consider researching ground beef nutrition.
4. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and set.
5. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Looking for some tasty side dish inspiration? Check out these roasted broccoli and carrots. This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe pairs perfectly with classic sides.

Tips and Variations for your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Here are a few tips and variations to make your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf even better:

Tips for a Moist and Flavorful Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense and tough loaf. Mix gently until just combined.
• Soak the breadcrumbs: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the mixture helps create a more moist and tender meatloaf. This also helps bind the ingredients together better.
• Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through without drying it out is to use a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.

Variations on the Classic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

• Add vegetables: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor. Sautéing them beforehand can enhance their flavor and prevent a watery meatloaf.
• Cheese, please: Incorporate shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese into the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of chili powder, or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider exploring these chicken fajita marinade recipes for ideas to spice up your meatloaf.
• Glaze variations: Experiment with different glazes like barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a mixture of honey and mustard. For information on healthy cooking oils for your glaze, visit Healthline.

Making Ahead and Freezing Instructions

• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance. Cover and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Freezing: Bake the meatloaf completely, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw the frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, slice and reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions and Sides for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

• Classic comfort: Mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, green beans, and mac and cheese are all classic pairings that complement the hearty flavor of the meatloaf. Think of a traditional, comforting Sunday dinner. For another comforting classic, consider making homemade chicken noodle soup.
• Southern charm: Collard greens, fried okra, and black-eyed peas bring a Southern flair to your meal. These sides offer contrasting textures and flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.
• Fresh and bright: A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing element to balance the richness of the meatloaf. Consider a crisp garden salad or a tangy coleslaw. This green bean salad is another excellent choice.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes offer a caramelized sweetness and earthy flavors that pair well with the savory meatloaf.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary over the meatloaf before baking for an aromatic touch. These herbs add brightness and depth to the meatloaf’s flavor.
• A touch of spice: Add a dash of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the meatloaf mixture to enhance the savory notes.
• Sauce it up: While the glaze provides plenty of flavor, a dollop of horseradish sauce, chimichurri sauce, or even a simple brown gravy can elevate the meatloaf to another level. Consider offering a variety of sauces for your guests to choose from.

FAQ: More on the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting classic at home. It’s a perfect family-friendly meal that’s sure to please everyone. I hope you give this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe a try and experience the joy of a homemade meatloaf that rivals the restaurant favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you create! For more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, be sure to explore the rest of our blog. Happy cooking!

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