Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a beloved dish that combines hearty ingredients and a sweet glaze for the perfect comfort food. With its iconic blend of *Ritz crackers*, cheddar cheese, and vegetables, this recipe delivers moist, flavorful slices every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you master this family favorite.
Before diving in, learn about the history of meatloaf to appreciate its journey as a staple comfort food. Plus, check out how to choose the best ground beef to ensure top-notch quality for your dish.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
The key to nailing the iconic flavor of *Cracker Barrel meatloaf* is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely diced white onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard (for glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create a moist, flavorful meatloaf with the perfect sweet and tangy glaze.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, green bell pepper, onion, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly to form a loaf shape.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
3 Creative Ways to Cook Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
1. Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
The slow cooker method is perfect for hands-off cooking, resulting in an ultra-moist and tender meatloaf.
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatloaf ingredients as per the original recipe.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and cover again.
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Using an air fryer gives the meatloaf a beautifully crisp crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix and shape the meatloaf according to the original recipe instructions.
- Place the loaf in an air fryer-safe baking dish or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Air fry for 30-35 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the meatloaf, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
3. Grilled Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Grilling meatloaf adds a smoky flavor that elevates the dish, making it perfect for summer barbecues.
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the foil-wrapped loaf on the grill and cook for 40-50 minutes, turning it occasionally to cook evenly.
- Unwrap the loaf, spread half of the glaze over the top, and place it directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for an additional 10-15 minutes, brushing with the remaining glaze as it cooks.
- Remove from the grill, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Achieving the ideal texture and flavor requires attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to guide you:
- Do not overmix the meat mixture; this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially for the vegetables, to enhance flavor.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to retain its juices and make slicing easier.
Creative Variations
Put your own twist on this classic recipe with these fun variations:
- Add a smoky BBQ glaze instead of the classic ketchup-based topping.
- Incorporate diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal.
- Serve with buttered rolls and a side of mac and cheese for ultimate comfort food vibes.
Storage and Reheating
Keep your leftovers fresh and delicious with these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
What is Cracker Barrel meatloaf made of?
Cracker Barrel meatloaf is made with a mix of ground beef, finely diced onion, green bell pepper, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. The signature sweet and tangy glaze is made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
The secret to moist meatloaf lies in the balance of ingredients. Using milk and eggs ensures the mixture is well-hydrated, while crushed crackers or breadcrumbs act as a binder to retain moisture. Avoid overmixing the meat, as it can lead to a dense, dry loaf.
Does Joanna Gaines have a meatloaf recipe?
Yes, Joanna Gaines features a classic meatloaf recipe in her cookbook. Her version includes ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, and a ketchup-based glaze, making it a family-friendly comfort food option similar to Cracker Barrel’s recipe.
What not to put in meatloaf?
Ingredients like too many fillers (e.g., excessive breadcrumbs), large chunks of raw vegetables, or an excess of liquid can ruin the texture of meatloaf. Overpowering seasonings or spices can also mask the savory flavor of the meat.
What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?
A combination of eggs and a binding agent like crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or oatmeal helps keep meatloaf from falling apart. These ingredients hold the mixture together and provide structure during baking.
Is Cracker Barrel food made from scratch?
Yes, Cracker Barrel emphasizes making many of their dishes from scratch, including their meatloaf, which is prepared fresh daily with high-quality ingredients.
What is the basic meatloaf formula?
The basic formula for meatloaf is 2 pounds of ground meat, 1 cup of a binding agent (e.g., breadcrumbs or crushed crackers), 1/2 cup of liquid (e.g., milk), 2 eggs, and seasonings to taste. This ratio ensures a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
What comes with meatloaf dinner at Cracker Barrel?
Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf dinner is typically served with two or three sides of your choice, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or fried okra, along with warm buttermilk biscuits or cornbread.
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Why Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a Favorite
The combination of simple ingredients and a comforting flavor profile makes *Cracker Barrel meatloaf* a hit with families. This recipe brings the nostalgia of dining at Cracker Barrel straight to your table, making it the perfect addition to your recipe collection.
