Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Try this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe
Try this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp. salt
- for the topping:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp. brown sugar
- 1 small finely diced onion
- 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1 1/2 sleeves of crushed ritz crackers
- 4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar or colby cheese
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp. mustard
- Carbohydrate 6.30454982200172 g
- Cholesterol 77.046260126268 mg
- Fat 12.2315592504121 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 24.6873411789797 g
- Saturated Fat 5.13318209388649 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (178g)
- Sodium 275.397616055072 mg
- Sugar 6.30454982200172 g
- Trans Fat 1.48917812667293 g
- Calories 240 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Place to the side. This will be used later as the topping.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, salt and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add in the ground beef. Mix well just to combine. Do not over mix.
- Form into a loaf and place inside a baking pan or baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and spread the topping over the meatloaf.
- Bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes or until the center is 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let it cool for 15 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy!
My Go-To Comfort Food: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. I need recipes that are both delicious and easy, and this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe absolutely fits the bill. It's become a staple in our household, a warm and comforting meal that the whole family loves. The secret? It's not just about the amazing flavor, but the simplicity of the preparation. I can often get this in the oven while I'm getting the kids ready for school or tackling a mountain of emails after work.
What sets this meatloaf apart? It's the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The slightly tangy ketchup topping complements the richness of the ground beef beautifully. The addition of Ritz crackers adds a delightful crunch, and the cheddar cheese melts into a creamy, flavorful goodness throughout. And let's not forget the ease of preparation – everything comes together in one bowl, minimizing cleanup time. It is a lifesaver for a busy weeknight dinner.
I usually double the recipe, because my family loves leftovers. Meatloaf sandwiches the next day? Yes please! The leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, the flavors having a chance to meld overnight. I'll often freeze half of the doubled batch for future meals. Just pop it in the oven, and dinner is ready in no time. This is a great solution for busy moms or professionals who are often short on time.
Beyond the convenience, this meatloaf delivers on taste. It's not dry or bland; it's moist and flavorful, with a delicious, slightly sweet crust from the topping. It's the type of comfort food that feels like a hug on a chilly evening. I've even adapted it a few times; adding some finely chopped mushrooms or swapping the cheddar for pepper jack, depending on what I have on hand. The base recipe, however, is pretty perfect and a delicious starting point.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: Assemble the meatloaf completely and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even more flavorful loaf.
- Add vegetables: Finely diced onions, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would work well.
- Crispy topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of cooking.
This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a memory maker. It’s the kind of food that brings people together. It is something I make often for family gatherings or potlucks; the meatloaf is always a crowd-pleaser and a recipe that I'll treasure for years to come. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of my heart.
So, if you're looking for a simple yet satisfying recipe that will please the whole family, give this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf a try. I promise you won't be disappointed.
