
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Description
Transport yourself back to the comforting flavors of a beloved Cracker Barrel meatloaf with this delightful recipe. Crafted with lean ground beef, Ritz crackers, cheese, and a tangy ketchup-brown sugar topping, this homemade meatloaf captures the essence of a nostalgic favorite right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with these essential ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small finely diced onion
- ½ cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
- 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 1/2 sleeves)
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½–¾ cups ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel meatloaf experience:
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Set aside; this delectable mixture will serve as the flavorful topping for your meatloaf.
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line a loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the meatloaf once it’s baked.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, diced onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Incorporate the Ground Beef:
- Add the lean ground beef to the mixture and gently combine, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to incorporate the ingredients without compacting the meat too much.
- Shape and Bake:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Apply the Topping:
- After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the prepared ketchup-brown sugar topping over the surface.
- Continue Baking:
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once fully cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and ensures juicy, tender slices.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Servings: 8
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Classic Side Dishes: Serve your Cracker Barrel meatloaf alongside classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Sandwiches: Turn leftovers into delicious sandwiches by slicing the meatloaf and layering it between slices of bread or buns. Add your favorite condiments and toppings for a tasty lunch option.
- Gravy: Drizzle homemade gravy over sliced meatloaf for an extra burst of flavor and moisture. Mushroom gravy or traditional brown gravy both pair wonderfully with this dish.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the meatloaf before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life of your meatloaf, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen meatloaf can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated meatloaf, slice it and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. For frozen meatloaf, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat slices directly from frozen by placing them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes.
- Creative Uses: Use leftover meatloaf in creative ways, such as crumbled over salads, mixed into pasta dishes, or as a topping for homemade pizzas. Its versatile nature makes it a convenient ingredient for a variety of meals.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cracker Barrel meatloaf remains delicious and fresh for every serving, whether it’s enjoyed immediately or saved for later enjoyment.