Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Step 3: Form the Meatloaf and Place It in the Pan

Once mixed, transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
Gently press it down to form a uniform loaf shape, smoothing out the top. You can also shape it by hand and place it on a baking sheet if you prefer a more rustic, freeform meatloaf.

Step 4: Make the Meatloaf Glaze

To make the savory glaze for the top of the meatloaf, mix together:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
Worcestershire sauce

Stir until well combined, creating a smooth, tangy glaze.

Step 5: Glaze the Meatloaf

Spoon the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. This will add flavor and give the meatloaf a lovely caramelized finish when baked.
You can reserve a bit of the glaze to brush on top halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
Halfway through baking, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with the reserved glaze if you want a more intense flavor.
Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the meatloaf. It should read at least 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest and Slice

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or macaroni and cheese. Don’t forget a generous spoonful of extra ketchup on the side for dipping!

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf:

Moisture is key: If you find that your meatloaf is too dry, try adding a bit more milk or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. The milk helps keep the meatloaf moist while the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid to prevent crumbling.
Don’t overmix: Mixing the ingredients too vigorously can lead to a tough meatloaf. Stir just until everything is combined.
Use lean ground beef: While fattier beef may seem more flavorful, lean beef (around 85%) provides the perfect balance of juiciness without being greasy.
Add veggies: Want to boost the nutrition? You can sneak in finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to add moisture and vitamins.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is everything you want in a comfort food: juicy, flavorful, and packed with familiar, satisfying ingredients. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Whether you’ve had it at Cracker Barrel or not, this homemade version is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this classic recipe, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Happy cooking! 😋🍽️