Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

My grandmother used to make this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe, my mother made it, and now I make it. Some might say it’s a family tradition.

But really, it’s just because the cracker barrel meatloaf is so darn good.

This copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is easy peasy lemon squeezy. When it comes to comfort food, meatloaf is king. And there’s no better place to get your fix than Cracker Barrel. Lucky for you, we’ve got the recipe for their famous meatloaf right here.

So grab a loaf of bread and get ready to chow down!

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food. The secret to its success is in the unique blend of spices and the addition of bread crumbs, which help to bind the meat together.

The result is a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, if you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite, give this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed.

The recipe is simple to follow and the end result is a delicious, hearty meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

So if you’re in the mood for something comforting, give this meatloaf recipe a try!

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf recipe is the perfect comfort food for a chilly night. The beef and pork blend gives the loaf a rich flavor, while the breadcrumbs and eggs help to bind it together. The addition of ketchup and mustard add a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat.

Jump to recipe

Why do I love this recipe?

There are many reasons why I love this recipe.

• First, it is very easy to make and only requires a few ingredients.
• Second, it is a very versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish.
• Third, the flavor of the dish is simply amazing.
• Lastly, this dish is very healthy and nutritious.

What to serve with Meatloaf?

One classic dish that often gets served with meatloaf is mashed potatoes. Another popular option is roasted or steamed vegetables. You could also serve a simple salad on the side. Some other ideas include:

• Macaroni and cheese.
• Baked beans.
• Green beans.
• Corn on the cob.
• Roasted potatoes.
• Fried onions.

What type of pan should I use?

There is no one “right” answer to this question, as the type of pan you use will depend on your personal preferences and the specific dish you are preparing. However, some general tips can help you choose the best pan for your needs.

For most everyday cooking, a simple nonstick skillet is a great option. Nonstick surfaces make it easy to cook food without sticking, and they are also relatively easy to clean. If you are planning to do any kind of serious cooking, however, you may want to invest in a more expensive stainless steel or cast iron skillet. These materials provide better heat conductivity and durability, making them ideal for more demanding cooking tasks.

When choosing a pan, always consider the size of the dish you will be preparing. A too-small pan will make it difficult to cook food evenly, while a too-large pan can be unwieldy and difficult to maneuver. In general, it is better to err on the side of slightly larger than you think you need, as you can always reduce the size of the cooking area if necessary.

Finally, pay attention to the shape of the pan when choosing one for your needs. Round pans are great for omelets and pancakes, while rectangular or square pans are better suited for grilled foods or casseroles. If you are unsure about what shape to choose, a good all-purpose option is a deep skillet with sloped sides, which can be used for a variety of different dishes.

Why is my meatloaf falling apart?

There are a few reasons why your meatloaf may be falling apart. One possibility is that you are not using enough binding agents, such as bread crumbs or eggs. Another possibility is that you are overcooking the meatloaf, causing it to dry out and become crumbly. Finally, if you add too much liquid to the mixture, the meatloaf will be too soft and may fall apart when cooked. To avoid these problems, be sure to follow your recipe closely and cook the meatloaf until it is just done.

How do I make my meatloaf moist and not dry?

There are a few different things that you can do in order to make your meatloaf moist and not dry. One thing that you can do is add some sort of moisture to the meat mixture before you bake it. This can be anything from adding milk or cream to the mixture to adding in some extra vegetables that have high water content.

Another thing that you can do is to cover the meatloaf with foil or a lid while it is baking. This will help to trap any moisture that is released during the cooking process and will prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

Finally, if you find that your meatloaf is starting to look dry after it has been baked, you can try basting it with a few pan juices or broth. This will help to add some extra moisture back into the meatloaf and will make it more moist and flavorful.

How long should I let my meatloaf rest after baking?

After baking your meatloaf, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring that each slice is flavorful and moist. If you cut into the meatloaf too soon, the juices will all run out, leaving the meat dry and crumbly. So be patient, and let your meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before digging in!

How can I check if the meatloaf is done without a cooking thermometer?

One way to check if the meatloaf is done without a cooking thermometer is to insert a knife into the center of the loaf and check to see if the juices run clear. If they do, then the meatloaf is most likely done. Another way to check is to lightly press down on the top of the loaf with your finger. If it springs back up, then it is probably finished cooking. Lastly, you can always err on the side of caution and cook the meatloaf for slightly longer than you think it needs to be just to make sure it is cooked through.

What kind of crackers should I use?

There are many types of crackers to choose from, so it really depends on your personal preference. Some popular choices include:

• Ritz crackers.
• Saltine crackers.
• Graham crackers.
• Water crackers.
• Wheat Thins.
• Triscuit crackers.
• Sociables crackers.
• Club crackers.
• Keebler Town House or Club Crackers.
• Good Thins The Rice One Crackers.
• Wasa Crack’n Clean Crackers.

Tips for this recipe:

• Try using fresh herbs for more flavor
• Add some spice with red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper
• For a creamier sauce, add a bit of heavy cream or half and half
• If you want a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.

Variations of this recipe:

There are many ways to vary this recipe.

• You could use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss.
• You could also add in some chopped ham or bacon for extra flavor.
• If you wanted a bit more of a kick, you could add in some diced jalapeños or other hot peppers.
• Finally, if you’re looking for a heartier dish, you could add in some cooked rice or quinoa.

So, whether you’re looking for a simple and easy recipe or something a little more robust, this cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is sure to please!

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Onion finely chopped
• eggs
• Milk
• Crackers crushed into crumbs
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Dijon mustard

How to make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs ground beef and 25 ritz cracker crumbs.

Step 3. Then, add ¾ cup of milk.

Step 4. Then, add 1 small onion finely chopped.

Step 5. Then, add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6. Lastly, add 2 large eggs and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7. Form the mixture into a loaf shape, and place it in the center of a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 8. In a bowl, add ½ cup of Ketchup.

Step 9. Next, add ½ cup of brown sugar.

Step 10. Finaly, add 1 tsp of dijon mustard.

Step 11. Combine together until well blended.

Step 12. Bake for 35 minutes, remove and spread half of the ketchup mixture over the top.

Step 13. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.

Step 14. Remove again and spread the other half of the ketchup mixture on top of the meatloaf.

Step 15. Bake a final 10 minutes and then serve.

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s night. It’s hearty and filling, and the savory flavors will warm you from the inside out. The best part is that it’s easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time slaving over a hot stove. Jump to printable recipe below!

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How to store and reheat this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe?

To store:

Place the meatloaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake until heated through.

Can You Freeze Meatloaf?

Sure, you can freeze meatloaf! In fact, freezing is one of the best ways to extend the shelf life of this popular dish. When properly stored in the freezer, meatloaf will stay fresh for 3-4 months.

When it comes to reheating frozen meatloaf, there are a few different methods you can use. The best way to reheat frozen meatloaf is in the oven. Simply preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the frozen meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. Simply prepare the recipe as directed and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the dish in a 350-degree oven until warmed through.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 6

Cracker Barrel's meatloaf recipe is the perfect comfort food for a chilly night. The beef and pork blend gives the loaf a rich flavor, while the breadcrumbs and eggs help to bind it together. The addition of ketchu and mustard add a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat.

4.45 from 38 votes

Review Recipe

Ingredients 

• 2 lbs. Ground beef
• 1 Small onion finely chopped
• 2 Large eggs
• ¾ C. Milk
• 25 Ritz crackers crushed into crumbs
• ½ C. Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ C. Ketchup
• ½ C. Brown sugar
• 1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Follow Sweet Pea’s Kitchen

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, eggs, milk, cracker crumbs, shredded cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Form the mixture into a loaf shape, and place it in the center of a 9×13 baking dish.
• In a bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until well blended.
• Bake for 35 minutes, remove and spread half of the ketchup mixture over the top.
• Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
• Remove again and spread the other half of the ketchup mixture on top of the meatloaf.
• Bake a final 10 minutes and then serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 639kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 208mg | Sodium: 630mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 21g

Author: Laura

THANKS FOR PINING!

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