Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

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Absolutely! Here’s a BIG, rich, comforting, full-style recipe just like you asked — warm, detailed, and perfect for sharing ❤️🍽️

🍖🥘 Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

Classic, Juicy & Pure Comfort Food

🌟 Introduction

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is the definition of Southern comfort. Tender, juicy ground beef blended with simple pantry ingredients and topped with a sweet-and-tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This meatloaf brings back memories of family dinners, roadside stops, and cozy country kitchens. It’s hearty, filling, and made to be shared with the people you love.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sweet Topping

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

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, eggs, crushed crackers, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix — this keeps the meatloaf tender.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
  5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
  6. Spread the topping evenly over the meatloaf.
  7. Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing for best texture.

🔥 Cooking Method Explained

  • Baking allows even cooking and keeps the meatloaf juicy
  • Ritz crackers + milk act as a panade, locking in moisture
  • Sweet glaze caramelizes on top, creating that signature Cracker Barrel flavor

📜 History

Meatloaf dates back to European meat dishes brought to America by early settlers. During the Great Depression, it became a staple because it stretched inexpensive ingredients into a filling family meal. Cracker Barrel popularized its version by keeping it simple, nostalgic, and home-style, just like grandma used to make.

🍽️ Formation & Serving

  • Slice thick for hearty portions
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, mac & cheese, or cornbread
  • Drizzle extra glaze on top for added comfort

❤️ Meatloaf Lovers’ Variations

  • Cheesy Lover’s Meatloaf: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar inside
  • Spicy Lovers: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes
  • Turkey Lovers: Substitute ground turkey and add extra milk
  • BBQ Lovers: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce

🧡 Why Everyone Loves This Meatloaf

  • Soft, juicy, and never dry
  • Sweet-savory glaze everyone craves
  • Budget-friendly and family-approved
  • Perfect leftovers (even better next day!)

🌟 Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is more than a recipe — it’s a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with nostalgic flavor, it’s the kind of meal that keeps families coming back to the table.

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

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