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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe features a savory blend of ground beef, sharp cheddar, finely diced vegetables, and crushed butter crackers for a tender, flavorful loaf. It's topped with a tangy-sweet glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Baked to perfection, this classic comfort dish serves eight, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: central europe
Calories: 3616.4
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 45 butter crackers
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80 percent lean
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar grated
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup green bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Equipment

  • 1 Loaf Pan
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's Knife
  • 1 Whisk (for glaze)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. Finely crush 45 butter crackers. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed crackers, 2 pounds ground beef (80 percent lean), 1 cup grated sharp cheddar, 1/2 to 3/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion, 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Gently mix all meatloaf ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Shape the mixture into an even loaf and place it into the prepared loaf pan.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon yellow mustard for the glaze.
  6. Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven, then spread the glaze evenly over the top.
  8. Return to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached and the glaze is caramelized.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

To achieve the best texture, ensure cracker crumbs are finely crushed. Avoid overmixing the ground beef mixture, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf; mix just until ingredients are incorporated. Finely dice your bell peppers and onions to ensure they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the loaf. For enhanced flavor, consider a quick sauté of the vegetables before adding them to the mixture. Apply the glaze about 15-20 minutes before the end of baking to prevent it from burning while still caramelizing beautifully. Always allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is ideal for doneness.