Name: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 cup chopped green pepper; 1 egg, beaten; 8 oz canned diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings together hearty ingredients into one satisfying dish. Known for its simple yet delicious flavors, this recipe is inspired by the traditional meatloaf served at the popular Cracker Barrel restaurants. With ground beef, fresh vegetables, oats, and a tangy homemade sauce, this dish has all the elements needed for a wholesome and filling meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this meatloaf is easy to make and provides a hearty, savory dish that everyone will enjoy. With its tender texture, juicy interior, and flavorful topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is beloved for its hearty, comforting flavors and simplicity. The combination of ground beef, onions, green peppers, and oats creates a deliciously tender and moist meatloaf, while the savory ketchup-mustard glaze adds the perfect amount of tang. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a meal for a larger gathering, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetites. It’s easy to prepare, bakes in just an hour, and has the kind of flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it an all-around crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

Ground beef
Salt
Ground black pepper
Chopped onion
Chopped green pepper
Egg
Canned diced tomatoes
Quick-cooking oats

For the sauce:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
Mustard

Variations

Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of the meatloaf.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture for some extra heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats in place of regular oats for a gluten-free version of the meatloaf.
Cheesy Meatloaf: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the meatloaf mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, beaten egg, diced tomatoes, and oats. Mix everything well until fully combined.

Step 2: Form the meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a 9″x13″ baking dish and shape it into a loaf.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Coat the meatloaf

Pour the prepared sauce over the formed meatloaf, ensuring it’s evenly covered.

Step 5: Bake the meatloaf

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, be sure not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a tough texture.
Use Lean Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a less greasy meatloaf, though a bit of fat will add flavor and moisture.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the ketchup-mustard glaze to your taste by adding more brown sugar for sweetness or extra mustard for tang.

How to Serve

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is best served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or mac and cheese. You can also pair it with a side salad for a lighter meal. To keep it traditional, serve it with a few slices of crusty bread for mopping up any extra sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the meatloaf cool before refrigerating to prevent moisture from accumulating inside the container.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, slice the meatloaf before freezing, so you can easily thaw individual portions as needed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating a whole loaf, cover it with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use lean ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef, but the texture may be slightly different, and you may want to add a bit more seasoning.

2. How do I make sure the meatloaf is moist?

Adding diced tomatoes and oats to the mixture helps keep the meatloaf moist. Also, don’t overbake it; check for doneness after 1 hour.

3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it overnight before baking the next day.

4. How long should I bake the meatloaf?

Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

5. Can I make this recipe without oats?

Yes, you can replace the oats with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, although oats give it a unique texture.

6. Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?

Yes, cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.

7. Can I use a loaf pan instead of a baking dish?

Yes, you can use a loaf pan for a more traditional shape, but a 9″x13″ dish works just as well.

8. How can I make the glaze spicier?

Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicier glaze.

9. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should read 160°F when fully cooked.

10. Can I use a different sauce for topping?

Yes, you can use BBQ sauce, tomato sauce, or a combination of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With simple ingredients like ground beef, vegetables, oats, and a tangy homemade sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a hearty, home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it ahead for a busy week, this meatloaf is a delicious and easy dish that everyone will love. Perfectly moist, savory, and flavorful, it’s comfort food at its finest.