Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. It’s a dish that reminds me of family dinners and the warm, cozy feeling of home. The Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe brings a unique twist to this beloved dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With its rich, savory taste and slightly sweet glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. I remember the first time I tried this recipe at a Cracker Barrel restaurant; the moistness and flavor of the meatloaf were unlike any other I had tasted. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.
Ingredients
2 eggs
2/3 cup milk
32 Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheating: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven is fully preheated is crucial for even cooking of the meatloaf.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Beating the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they are well blended.
Adding Milk and Crackers: Pour in the milk and add the crushed Ritz crackers to the eggs. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to allow the crackers to soak up the milk, which helps to keep the meatloaf moist.
Incorporating Onion and Cheese: Stir in the chopped onion and the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. These ingredients add both flavor and texture to the meatloaf.
Seasoning: Add the salt and pepper to the mixture and stir to combine.
Adding Ground Beef: Finally, add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands or a large spoon, mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shaping the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish or a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it is even on all sides for uniform cooking.
First Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This initial baking period allows the meat to cook through and begin to develop its flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Making the Topping: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and the mixture is smooth. This topping adds a delicious sweet and tangy glaze to the meatloaf.
Step 5: Add the Topping
First Layer of Topping: After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spoon half of the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
Return to Oven: Place the meatloaf back in the oven and continue baking for another 10 minutes. This allows the topping to set and begin to caramelize.
Step 6: Final Baking
Second Layer of Topping: After 10 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven again and spoon the remaining ketchup mixture over the top.
Final Bake: Return the meatloaf to the oven for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. The total baking time should be around 50-55 minutes. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Resting: Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice and ensuring it stays moist.
Serving: Slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Options: While ground beef is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with ground turkey or a mixture of ground beef and ground pork for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to use it. Pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese can provide a unique twist to the meatloaf.
Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach into the meat mixture.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Sugar-Free Topping: If you are watching your sugar intake, you can use a sugar-free ketchup and a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the topping mixture.
Conclusion
The Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Its combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and a sweet and tangy glaze makes it a standout on any dinner table. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
What makes this meatloaf truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The Ritz crackers provide a buttery richness, while the sharp cheddar adds a creamy, tangy note. The topping, with its blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, creates a delightful contrast that elevates the overall taste.
Moreover, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or to use what you have on hand. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized in numerous ways, ensuring it never becomes boring.
In conclusion, the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a must-try recipe that brings the comfort and nostalgia of home-cooked meals to your kitchen. Its delicious flavor, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this meatloaf is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.