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How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
1. Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, milk, bread crumbs, onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix the ingredients together gently, being careful not to overwork the meat, as that can lead to a dense meatloaf.
- Once fully combined, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or onto a baking sheet.
3. Make the Glaze
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and combined.
- Pour half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon. This will create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes as it bakes.
4. Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 10-15 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you’re using a loaf pan, make sure to drain any excess fat halfway through the cooking process for a leaner result.
5. Rest and Serve
- Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Slice into generous portions and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ Classic Comfort – Pair your meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn on the cob for a true Cracker Barrel-inspired meal.
🍞 Sandwich Style – Use leftover meatloaf to make a delicious sandwich. Add a slice of cheese, pickles, and a dab of mustard for an easy lunch.
🍝 Meatloaf with Pasta – Try serving it with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a fun twist on classic meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
✅ Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until combined to keep it tender.
✅ Use Lean Meat – Ground beef with a good fat content (around 80/20) helps keep the meatloaf juicy without being greasy.
✅ Rest Before Slicing – Letting the meatloaf rest helps lock in moisture and makes slicing easier.
✅ Customize the Glaze – Feel free to adjust the glaze ingredients to your taste. You can add a dash of hot sauce for some heat or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a tried-and-true recipe that brings comfort and delicious flavors to your table. The combination of tender beef, savory seasonings, and the sweet, tangy glaze makes this dish one the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or looking for leftovers to enjoy later, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy! 🍖🍴
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