Description
Cracker Barrel is renowned for its comforting, home-style meals, and their Meatloaf is no exception. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of savory ingredients to create a meatloaf that’s both moist and flavorful. With a delightful topping that caramelizes beautifully during baking, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and crushed Ritz crackers, stirring to combine.
- Incorporate the chopped onion and shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture.
- Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a bowl.
- After 30 minutes of baking, spoon half of the topping over the meatloaf.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Spoon the remaining topping over the meatloaf and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Let It Rest: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to cut and more flavorful.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the meatloaf into even portions. This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Accompaniments: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a side of creamy mac and cheese or buttered corn.
- Topping Variations: You can customize the topping with additional spices or herbs. For a bit of extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the ketchup mixture.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the meatloaf is completely cooled before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.
- Freezing: To freeze meatloaf, allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave on medium power, or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Avoid Drying Out: To keep reheated meatloaf moist, add a splash of beef broth or water before reheating. Cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out in the oven.
