Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Cracker Barrel meatloaf! There’s something so heartwarming about a classic meatloaf, and this recipe brings back all those cozy family memories. I remember visiting Cracker Barrel with my family, and the smell of their delicious meatloaf wafting through the air was irresistible. It’s like a big hug on a plate, and I just knew I had to recreate that magic at home.

This meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip it up time and time again. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table, and I just love that about it. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making the best Cracker Barrel meatloaf that’ll make you feel right at home!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather everything we need to make this mouthwatering Cracker Barrel meatloaf! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping, if you like!)
1 onion, chopped
2 eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Make sure everything is fresh and ready to go! Trust me, the quality of these ingredients makes a huge difference in the flavor. Now that we have our shopping list sorted out, we can move on to the fun part—preparing this delicious meatloaf!

How to Prepare Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Now comes the best part—bringing all those wonderful ingredients together to create the ultimate Cracker Barrel meatloaf! I promise, it’s super simple and totally rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious loaf that’ll impress everyone!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important! You want that oven nice and hot when it’s time to bake the meatloaf.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. I like to use my hands for this—just dive in and mix until everything is well combined. It’s a bit messy, but trust me, it’s the best way to get that meatloaf mixed just right!
Once everything is mixed, transfer the mixture to a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s evenly packed. This helps it hold together beautifully when it bakes.
If you’re a ketchup lover like me, go ahead and spread a little extra ketchup on top of the loaf. It adds a nice glaze and extra flavor!
Now, it’s time to bake! Pop the loaf into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, and if you have a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). That way, you know it’s perfectly cooked through.
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This is so important! Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute, making your meatloaf even juicier when you slice it.

And that’s it! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a slice of this comforting Cracker Barrel meatloaf. Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen—delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
Classic flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals at Cracker Barrel.
Hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect comfort food dish.
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Great for feeding a crowd—this recipe yields 8 generous servings!
Leftovers are just as delicious, making for great lunch the next day.
Customizable with your favorite seasonings or toppings for a personal touch.
It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table—just like family dinners should!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Cracker Barrel meatloaf turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to help you avoid any common pitfalls and achieve meaty greatness:

Don’t overmix: While you want everything combined well, be careful not to overmix the meat. This can lead to a dense loaf. Just mix until everything is incorporated, and then stop!
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ground beef and eggs make a big difference in flavor and texture. If you can, try to get your meat from a trusted source or butcher.
Resting time is key: Giving your meatloaf a chance to rest after baking is super important. It helps keep all those delicious juices inside, so don’t skip this step!
Temperature check: Use a meat thermometer! Checking that your meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) ensures it’s fully cooked without being overdone. Nobody wants dry meatloaf!
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to play around with seasonings! Adding garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even some chopped bell peppers can give your meatloaf a unique twist. Just remember to keep the balance right!
Perfect loaf shape: When shaping your loaf in the pan, make sure it’s evenly packed. This helps it maintain its shape while baking. A little extra care here goes a long way!
Side dishes matter: Pair your meatloaf with the right sides—mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad make the perfect companions and elevate your meal!

With these tips, you’re all set to make the best Cracker Barrel meatloaf ever! Just trust your instincts, enjoy the process, and savor every bite of that comforting goodness!

Variations of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

If you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to switch things up, there are so many fun ways to put your personal spin on this Cracker Barrel meatloaf! I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to keep things exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Veggie-Loaded Meatloaf: Sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra moisture and a nutritional boost. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend nicely into the mix!
BBQ Twist: Swap out ketchup for your favorite barbecue sauce. It adds a smoky flavor that’s absolutely delicious! You can also mix in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and some grated Parmesan cheese to the mix. Top it with marinara sauce instead of ketchup for a hearty spaghetti-inspired dish.
Cheesy Meatloaf: For the cheese lovers out there, consider mixing in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the meat mixture. You can even stuff a little cheese in the center for a melty surprise!
Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary slightly.
Herb-Infused Meatloaf: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Just chop them up finely and mix them in for a fresh burst of flavor.
Asian-Inspired: Mix in some soy sauce, ginger, and chopped green onions for a unique twist. You could even glaze the top with teriyaki sauce before baking for a sweet and savory finish!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this meatloaf your own. Whatever you choose, I promise it’ll still be a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made this delicious Cracker Barrel meatloaf and have some leftovers (if you can resist eating it all in one sitting!), let’s talk about how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy those tasty slices again later!

First, to store your meatloaf, let it cool completely at room temperature—this helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting soggy. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it into portions and wrap each slice separately before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last up to 2–3 months in the freezer. Trust me, when you’re craving comfort food, having a slice of meatloaf in the freezer is a lifesaver!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super easy! For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place your meatloaf slices in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to keep the moisture in, and let them warm up for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave. Just place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Just be careful not to overdo it in the microwave—nobody wants rubbery meatloaf!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Cracker Barrel meatloaf just as much the next day (or week!). So go ahead and savor every last bite of that comforting goodness!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this Cracker Barrel meatloaf! It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, especially when it comes to comfort food. Just a heads up, the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this a general guideline rather than an exact science.

For each slice of this delicious meatloaf, you can expect approximately:

Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

Remember, this meatloaf packs a hearty punch of flavor along with a good balance of protein and fats, making it a satisfying meal. So, enjoy every slice knowing you’re indulging in a classic dish that’s just as comforting as it is nourishing!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect Cracker Barrel meatloaf? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a little different, and it can cook a bit faster, so watch that internal temperature closely.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can substitute them with crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice. Just make sure whatever you use can help bind the meatloaf together!

How long should I cook the meatloaf?
For this recipe, you’ll want to bake it for about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C) or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Always best to check with a meat thermometer to be sure!

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Definitely! Adding finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and moisture. Just remember to chop them small so they blend well into the meat mixture!

What should I serve with meatloaf?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving my meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery green beans. You could also go for a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a nice balance!

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just take it out and let it sit at room temperature for a bit before popping it in the oven.

How do I store leftovers?
After your meatloaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3–4 days, or you can freeze it for longer enjoyment!

I hope these answers help you on your meatloaf journey! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection

Author: Louna
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A classic meatloaf recipe inspired by Cracker Barrel.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup ketchup
1 onion, chopped
2 eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Spread additional ketchup on top, if desired.
Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Notes

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: cracker barrel meatloaf

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