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Delicious Cracker Barrel meatloaf served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting American dish, bursting with savory flavors and topped with a sweet-tangy glaze, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, Homestyle Recipe, Meatloaf
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 325kcal

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 large eggs binding the mixture beautifully.
  • 2/3 cup milk to enrich the flavors.
  • 32 pieces Ritz crackers crushed into fine crumbs to add texture and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup onion finely chopped for a fragrant base.
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded for a delightful cheesiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt to enhance the overall taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a subtle kick.
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef the heart of this dish.

For the Glaze

  • 1/2 cup ketchup for a sweet glaze.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar to balance the tanginess of the ketchup.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard adding depth and complexity to the glaze.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or baking dish to prevent sticking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until thoroughly combined. Then, stir in the milk before adding the crushed Ritz crackers, allowing them to absorb the liquid for a few moments.
  • Add the chopped onion and shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  • Gently mix in the ground beef using your hands or a fork, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

Cooking

  • Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes.
  • While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
  • After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and spread half of the glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Remove the meatloaf again, spread the remaining glaze on top, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

To elevate your meatloaf, consider adding fresh herbs, using lean ground beef, or substituting with ground turkey. For the glaze, barbecue sauce can be used for a smoky flavor.