Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food known for its moist texture and flavorful taste. This homestyle meatloaf recipe replicates the classic dish served at the Cracker Barrel restaurant, featuring ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, and a ketchup topping.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs ground beef
2. 2 large eggs
3. 1 ½ cups diced onions
4. 1 cup milk

 

1. ¾ cup crushed saltine crackers
2. ½ cup ketchup
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. ½ teaspoon black pepper
5. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
6. ¼ cup ketchup (for topping)

INSTRUCTIONS:

 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, diced onions, milk, crushed saltine crackers, ½ cup ketchup, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. If using a baking sheet, you can form the loaf with your hands to ensure it holds its shape.

 

 

Step 4: Spread the ¼ cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 6: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moister.

 

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad. It also pairs well with gravy or additional ketchup.

Tips:

1. You can add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
2. For a crustier exterior, bake the meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan.
3. Leftover meatloaf slices are great for making sandwiches the next day.

 

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes
Total Time: 75-90 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving.
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving.
• Sodium: Approximately 500-600 mg per serving, depending on the salt content of the ingredients used.

Conclusion: This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings the comfort of a home-cooked meal to your table. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily modified to suit your taste preferences and is perfect for a hearty family dinner. Enjoy the delicious combination of savory beef and a sweet ketchup glaze in this classic meatloaf recipe.