Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: A Delicious, Comforting Classic
Are you craving the deliciously hearty and tender meatloaf that you can only get at Cracker Barrel? Well, now you can make this mouthwatering meatloaf right at home with this simple copycat recipe! The perfect blend of ground beef and pork, combined with a flavorful seasoning mix and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, makes this meatloaf the ideal comfort food for family dinners. This copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
- Juicy and Tender: The combination of beef and pork gives the meatloaf the perfect texture.
- Flavorful Glaze: A sweet, tangy, and savory topping that’s just like Cracker Barrel’s signature glaze.
- Easy to Make: This simple recipe uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, making it easy to prepare. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is the perfect dish to bring comfort and joy to your table.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Ingredients
To recreate Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean to fat ratio for flavor and juiciness)
- 1 lb ground pork (this adds extra moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (adds flavor and moisture)
- 1 cup milk (helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use either plain or seasoned, depending on your preference)
- 1 large egg (acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami flavor)
- 1 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional, but adds a lovely herby flavor)
For the Meatloaf Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup (adds sweetness and tang)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (helps create a sweet, caramelized glaze)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a tangy, sharp note)
How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf at Home
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf will cook evenly and get that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Once the mixture is evenly combined, it’s ready to shape.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Form the loaf evenly, pressing it down slightly so it cooks consistently.
Step 4: Prepare the Meatloaf Glaze In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using). This glaze is what gives the meatloaf its signature sweet and tangy flavor. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The glaze should be caramelized and slightly bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Slice Once your meatloaf is done baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your slices are juicy and tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Cut into the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn on the cob. For the ultimate comfort meal, don’t forget to add a side of extra ketchup for dipping!
Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Use a Mix of Ground Beef and Pork: The combination of ground beef and pork is key to getting a tender and juicy meatloaf. If you prefer to use all beef, that works too, but the pork helps lock in moisture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the juices to settle and helps keep the meatloaf from falling apart when sliced.
- Add a Personal Touch: If you love vegetables, try adding finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and glaze a day ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you prefer, you can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? A: Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of ground meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that leaner meats may result in a slightly drier loaf. If you use lean ground meat, consider adding a bit more moisture with milk or extra egg.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked? A: The most reliable way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe brings the comforting, homestyle flavor of one of your favorite restaurant dishes straight to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can enjoy a tender, juicy, and flavorful meatloaf that tastes just like the one served at Cracker Barrel. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf will undoubtedly become a go-to favorite in your household! Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy