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Indulge in the Homey Comfort of Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe - Your Ultimate Guide to a Mouthwatering Delight!

Cracker Barrel Recipe For Meatloaf

Looking for a savory and comforting meatloaf recipe? Try the Cracker Barrel recipe for meatloaf, packed with delicious flavors and easy to make.

Are you searching for a recipe that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food? Look no further than the Cracker Barrel famous meatloaf recipe! This classic dish is a mouth-watering delight that will surely leave you begging for more.

The homey comfort of a perfectly cooked meatloaf is what makes it a staple in households across America. With its savory mixture of ground beef, onion, and breadcrumbs, this comfort food is the ultimate comfort food. The addition of ketchup glaze on top gives it a perfect finish.

Luckily, you don't have to go all the way to Cracker Barrel to indulge in their famous meatloaf recipe. With our ultimate guide, you can recreate this meal in the comfort of your own home. Our recipe is easy-to-follow and requires only a few ingredients. So why not give it a try and wow your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying meal.

Whether you're craving a hearty dinner or a flavorful lunch, Cracker Barrel's famous meatloaf recipe is the perfect choice. So what are you waiting for? Dive into our guide and impress your loved ones with this mouth-watering dish that is sure to be a hit at any occasion. Don't forget to prepare extra servings as everyone will be asking for seconds!

Indulge in the Homey Comfort of Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe - Your Ultimate Guide to a Mouthwatering Delight!

Do you want to make a hearty and flavorful meatloaf dish that will make your taste buds sing? Look no further than Cracker Barrel's famous meatloaf recipe, known for its savory blend of herbs and spices and moist texture that will leave you craving more. Below is a guide to creating this classic dish at home, so gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of ground beef
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1/2 green pepper, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1/2 cup of ketchup
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, green pepper, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and basil.
  3. Once well-combined, press the mixture into a loaf pan and smooth out the top.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
  5. Spoon the sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until fully cooked through.
  7. Once finished, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information

This recipe makes 8 servings. Each serving contains:

  • Calories: 480
  • Total Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 139mg
  • Sodium: 843mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Protein: 31g

Now that you have the recipe for Cracker Barrel's famous meatloaf, you can enjoy this homey comfort food anytime you want! Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or another favorite side dish, you'll savor each bite of this mouthwatering delight.

Introduction to Cracker Barrel Recipe for Meatloaf

Discover how to recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel meatloaf at home. Cracker Barrel is known for its comforting and delicious homestyle dishes, and their meatloaf is no exception. With its flavorful blend of ingredients and moist texture, this meatloaf recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're craving a taste of nostalgia or simply want to impress your guests with a classic dish, this recipe will guide you through every step to achieve meatloaf perfection.

Ingredients

To prepare the Cracker Barrel meatloaf, you'll need the following key ingredients:

1. Ground Beef

The foundation of any meatloaf is ground beef. Choose a lean ground beef with a fat content around 85% to ensure a moist and flavorful result.

2. Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs serve as a binder in the meatloaf, helping to hold the ingredients together. Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs or add your own combination of herbs and spices for extra flavor.

3. Secret Seasonings

Cracker Barrel's meatloaf has a unique blend of secret seasonings that give it its distinct taste. While the exact recipe remains a mystery, some common additions include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.

Step-by-step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to make the Cracker Barrel meatloaf:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and thoroughly.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, secret seasonings, diced onions, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional desired ingredients. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix everything together until well combined.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture onto a greased baking pan or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape, ensuring that it is evenly compacted. Smooth the top with your hands or the back of a spoon.

4. Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures that the meat is cooked through.

Secret Ingredients

One of the reasons why Cracker Barrel's meatloaf stands out is because of its secret ingredients. These add-ins give the meatloaf an extra depth of flavor that keeps people coming back for more. Here are some of the secret ingredients:

1. Diced Onions

Adding diced onions to the meatloaf mixture not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist. The onions release their natural juices during cooking, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

2. Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and savory element to the meatloaf. Its umami-rich flavor enhances the overall taste profile of the dish and gives it a unique twist.

Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve a moist and tender meatloaf every time, follow these helpful tips:

1. Don't Overmix

When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix until just combined to ensure a light and tender meatloaf.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients, especially the ground beef, is crucial for a delicious meatloaf. Fresh ingredients have better flavor and moisture content, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy end result.

3. Let It Rest

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.

Time-saving Hacks

If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade Cracker Barrel meatloaf, try these time-saving hacks:

1. Pre-chopped Vegetables

Save time by using pre-chopped onions or other vegetables. Many grocery stores offer pre-chopped vegetables in the produce section, allowing you to skip the chopping step altogether.

2. Store-bought Breadcrumbs

If you don't have breadcrumbs on hand or prefer not to make them from scratch, opt for store-bought breadcrumbs. They work just as well and save you the extra step of making your own.

Adjusting the Recipe

The beauty of this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to cater to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Here are some ways to adapt the recipe:

1. Dietary Restrictions

If you follow a specific dietary lifestyle, such as a gluten-free or keto diet, you can make substitutions to accommodate your needs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version, or replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option.

2. Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavors of your meatloaf. Add spices like cumin or chili powder for a Mexican-inspired twist, or mix in herbs like rosemary and thyme for an herbed meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Cracker Barrel meatloaf is cooked to perfection, it's time to think about how to serve it creatively. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans

Pair your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic and comforting meal. The combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your taste buds and create a well-rounded plate.

2. Meatloaf Sandwiches

Transform your leftover meatloaf into delicious sandwiches. Toast some bread, spread on your favorite condiments, and add slices of meatloaf for a hearty and flavorful sandwich.

Leftover Inspiration

If you have any leftover meatloaf, don't let it go to waste. Get creative with these leftover inspiration ideas:

1. Meatloaf Cupcakes

Crumble the leftover meatloaf and press it into muffin tins to create savory meatloaf cupcakes. Top them with mashed potato frosting and bake until heated through. This fun twist on meatloaf will delight both children and adults alike.

2. Hearty Casseroles

Use your leftover meatloaf as a base for a hearty casserole. Crumble the meatloaf and combine it with cooked pasta, vegetables, and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Adapting the Recipe

While the Cracker Barrel recipe for meatloaf is already delicious, don't be afraid to make it your own. Experiment with additional ingredients or modify cooking techniques to suit your tastes. Add ingredients like diced bell peppers or shredded cheese for extra flavor, or try cooking the meatloaf on the grill for a smoky twist.

With this comprehensive guide, you're ready to tackle the Cracker Barrel recipe for meatloaf in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of recreating this comforting classic and savor the delicious results!

The Cracker Barrel Recipe For Meatloaf

A Delicious Homestyle Dish

Cracker Barrel, the renowned American restaurant chain known for its comforting homestyle cooking, has a recipe for meatloaf that is simply divine. Served with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans, this dish is a customer favorite, reminiscent of the meals we enjoyed as children at Grandma's house.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, chopped onion, milk, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
  4. In a separate small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Spread the sauce evenly over the meatloaf, ensuring that it is completely covered.
  6. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  8. Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans, for a complete and comforting meal.

The Cracker Barrel recipe for meatloaf brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The saltine crackers provide a subtle crunch, while the onion adds a hint of sweetness. The combination of spices enhances the savory taste of the ground beef, creating a truly mouthwatering experience.

When you take your first bite, you'll be transported back to simpler times, surrounded by the warmth and love of a home-cooked meal. The rich aroma of the meatloaf wafts through the air, enticing your senses and making your taste buds dance with delight.

The tangy and slightly sweet sauce that tops the meatloaf adds the perfect finishing touch. It caramelizes during baking, forming a delicious glaze that complements the flavors of the dish. Each slice is tender and juicy, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds.

Whether you're craving a comforting dinner or looking to impress your friends and family with a classic dish, the Cracker Barrel recipe for meatloaf is a guaranteed winner. It captures the essence of homestyle cooking and brings a nostalgic touch to your table.

Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on how to make Cracker Barrel's famous meatloaf recipe. We hope that you have enjoyed reading about this mouthwatering comfort food and that you will be inspired to try making it yourself at home.

We understand that everyone has different tastes and preferences when it comes to food, but we are confident that this recipe will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of ground beef, sausage, onions, and bell peppers, along with a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb mixture, creates a delicious and hearty meatloaf that is sure to impress your family and friends.

So what are you waiting for? Head on over to your nearest Cracker Barrel or gather the necessary ingredients and start cooking this amazing meatloaf in the comfort of your own home. We guarantee that indulging in the flavors of this classic recipe will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. Enjoy!

People Also Ask about Indulging in the Homey Comfort of Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe:

  1. What is Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe?
  2. Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe is a delicious blend of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and seasoned breadcrumbs, topped with a tangy tomato glaze. It's a classic comfort food that's perfect for any occasion.

  3. Is Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe easy to make?
  4. Yes, Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe is relatively easy to make. The recipe requires simple ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour. It's a great option for those looking to whip up a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

  5. What makes Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe so special?
  6. Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe is special because it combines classic flavors and ingredients in a unique way. The addition of bell peppers and seasoned breadcrumbs adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the tomato glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish. It's a crowd-pleasing recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.

  7. What are some tips for making Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe?
    • Make sure to use fresh ingredients, particularly the ground beef.
    • Don't overmix the ingredients, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
    • Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  8. What are some side dishes that pair well with Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe?
  9. Some great side dishes to serve with Cracker Barrel's Famous Meatloaf Recipe include mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, and macaroni and cheese.