Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This meatloaf recipe has been in my family for years, and I can’t get enough of it! It’s so moist and flavorful, and the glaze topping is the perfect finishing touch. I love serving this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that my family always enjoys.
I’ve been making this meatloaf for years, and I’ve perfected it over time. I’ve tried different types of ground beef, different types of crackers, and different types of cheese. I’ve also experimented with the glaze topping, adding different spices and sweeteners. But the basic recipe has always stayed the same.
This meatloaf is so easy to make, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I usually make it on a Sunday night, and we have leftovers for lunch all week. It’s a great way to use up leftover ground beef, and it’s always a hit with the kids.
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meatloaf recipe, I highly recommend trying this Cracker Barrel copycat. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions I often get about this recipe:
Q: What kind of ground beef should I use?
A: You can use any type of ground beef, but a blend of lean and ground chuck will give you the best flavor and texture.
Q: Can I substitute other types of crackers for Ritz crackers?
A: Yes, you can use other types of crackers, such as saltines or Club crackers.
Q: What type of cheese should I use?
A: Sharp cheddar cheese is the traditional choice, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
Q: How can I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
A: Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture, and add a little milk or ketchup to the mixture for extra moisture.
Q: How can I prevent the meatloaf from cracking?
A: Gently press the meatloaf mixture into the loaf pan, and avoid overfilling the pan.
Q: Can I omit the Worcestershire sauce?
A: Yes, you can omit the Worcestershire sauce, but it does add a nice depth of flavor to the glaze.
Q: How can I make the glaze thicker?
A: Simmer the glaze over low heat for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
What you need to make this amazing meatloaf:
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
3 eggs
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
How to make the meatloaf:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the milk and cheddar cheese to the meat mixture and mix until just combined.
Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
For a more flavorful meatloaf, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use other types of crackers, such as saltines or Club crackers.
To make the meatloaf even more moist, add 1/4 cup of ketchup to the meat mixture.
You can also add other vegetables to the meatloaf, such as diced carrots or celery.
Serve the meatloaf with your favorite mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.
Printable Recipe:
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the milk and cheddar cheese to the meat mixture and mix until just combined.
- Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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