This recipe for Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf brings the classic comfort of a home-cooked meal right to your table. Featuring a savory and tender meatloaf topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, this dish is the definition of American comfort food. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make centerpiece for any family dinner.
Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
Ingredients: Quantity
Ground beef (80/20 recommended) 2 lbs
Breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines) 1 cup
Milk 1 cup
Medium onion, finely chopped 1
Large eggs 2
Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp
Salt 1 tsp
Black pepper 1 tsp
Garlic powder 1 tsp
Dried thyme (optional) 1 tsp
For the Glaze:
Ingredients: Quantity
Ketchup 1 cup
Brown sugar 3 tbsp
Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard) 1 tbsp
Apple cider vinegar (optional) 1 tbsp
How To Make Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf:
Preheat Oven & Soak Breadcrumbs: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs and let them sit for 5 minutes to soak.
Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme (if using). Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape & Prepare Glaze: Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet, or press it into a loaf pan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar (if using) to make the glaze.
Bake & Glaze: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. Remove it from the oven and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to settle, which helps it stay moist.
