Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

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🍽️ Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf 😋

A Classic Comfort Dish You’ll Never Want to Lose!

Few dishes say home-style comfort like a thick slice of tender, juicy meatloaf—especially when it’s inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel version. This meatloaf is hearty, moist, and packed with flavor from crushed Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and finely diced vegetables. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds. 😍

🧾 INGREDIENTS

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Topping (Classic Style)

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine milk and crushed Ritz crackers. Let soak for 1–2 minutes until soft.
  3. Add eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently.
  4. Stir in diced onion, green bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Add ground beef and mix just until combined—do not overmix.
  6. Transfer mixture into prepared loaf pan and gently press into shape.
  7. If using topping, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard and spread evenly on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 60–75 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

🔥 COOKING METHODS

Oven-Baked (Classic)

  • Traditional and best for even cooking and caramelized topping.

Skillet + Oven Finish

  • Brown meatloaf in a skillet first, then finish baking for extra flavor.

Slow Cooker Method

  • Shape meatloaf, place on foil sling, cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.

📜 HISTORY OF MEATLOAF

Meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome, where minced meat was mixed with bread and spices. In America, it became popular during the Great Depression, when stretching ingredients was essential. Cracker Barrel helped revive and perfect this dish as a nostalgic Southern comfort classic.

🧩 FORMATION & TEXTURE SECRETS

  • Crackers + milk = ultra-moist texture
  • Cheese adds richness and subtle saltiness
  • Finely diced vegetables melt into the loaf, adding flavor without chunks
  • Resting time allows juices to redistribute perfectly

❤️ WHY PEOPLE LOVE THIS MEATLOAF

  • Tastes just like Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf
  • Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
  • Perfect for leftovers and sandwiches
  • Comfort food that never goes out of style

🍽️ SERVING IDEAS (FOR THE LOVERS)

  • Creamy mashed potatoes 🥔
  • Green beans or buttered corn 🌽
  • Buttermilk biscuits
  • Mac and cheese for ultimate comfort

🥰 FOR THE MEATLOAF LOVERS

This recipe is for:

  • Sunday family dinners
  • Busy weeknight comfort meals
  • Anyone who loves classic, cozy, homemade food

🌟 CONCLUSION

This Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition on a plate. Rich, tender, and loaded with flavor, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.

👉 Must express something to keep getting my recipes… Thank you!

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