Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings back fond memories of hearty family dinners. This dish is inspired by the famous meatloaf served at Cracker Barrel, a beloved American restaurant chain known for its homestyle cooking. With its tender, juicy texture and a delightful topping that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
I remember the first time I tried Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. It was on a road trip with my family, and we stopped at a Cracker Barrel for dinner. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the delicious aroma of home-cooked food, made it an unforgettable experience. The meatloaf was the highlight of the meal, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After some experimentation, I finally perfected the recipe, and now it’s a favorite dish that I love to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
2 eggs
2/3 cup milk
32 Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven is ready for baking once you have prepared the meatloaf.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Beat the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs until they are frothy. This helps to incorporate air into the mixture, which will give the meatloaf a lighter texture.
Add Milk and Crackers:
Add 2/3 cup of milk to the beaten eggs.
Crush 32 Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and add them to the bowl. The crackers act as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together while adding a buttery flavor.
Mix in Onion and Cheese:
Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion to the mixture. The onion adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
Stir in 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese adds richness and a slight tang that complements the other ingredients.
Season the Mixture:
Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper to the bowl. Mix well to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Add Ground Beef:
Add 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands or a large spoon, mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. Alternatively, you can shape it into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
Initial Baking:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. This allows the meatloaf to cook through and set before adding the topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Make the Topping:
While the meatloaf is baking, combine 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of mustard in a small bowl. Mix until the ingredients are well combined. This topping adds a sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Add the Topping
First Topping Application:
After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spoon half of the prepared topping evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This initial layer of topping will start to caramelize and infuse the meatloaf with flavor.
Continue Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the first layer of topping to set and meld with the meatloaf.
Second Topping Application:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven again. Spoon the remaining topping over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
Final Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven for a final 5-10 minutes of baking. The topping should become glossy and slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Rest the Meatloaf:
Once fully baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it easier to slice and ensuring it remains moist.
Serve:
After resting, transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter and slice it into portions. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Variations and Substitutions
Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since turkey may cook slightly faster.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or bread crumbs in place of the Ritz crackers to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetable Additions: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or the topping for a spicy version of this classic dish.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack, to change the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the savory flavors of cheese and onions, all topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe is straightforward to make and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re reminiscing about a favorite restaurant meal or creating new memories with loved ones, this meatloaf is sure to please. The combination of familiar ingredients and homey flavors makes it an enduring classic that everyone will enjoy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf in the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!
