Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is a beloved comfort food, known for its moist texture and flavorful glaze. If you’re looking to recreate this dish at home, here’s a popular copycat recipe that captures the essence of the original.
🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
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2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
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1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
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1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
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3 large eggs
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1 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
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1/2 cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven:
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Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, grated cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, eggs, salt, and pepper.
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Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. It’s best to use your hands for this to ensure even mixing.
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Form the Meatloaf:
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Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape.
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Bake the Meatloaf:
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Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Glaze:
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While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl.
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Apply the Glaze:
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After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven.
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Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
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Final Baking:
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Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest Before Serving:
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Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
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Serving Suggestions:
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Serve the meatloaf slices with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal.
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For a twist, pair it with macaroni and cheese or steamed vegetables.
For a visual guide on preparing this dish, you might find the following video helpful:
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe
Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf!
