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cracker barrel meatloaf ingredients

comprehensive Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe

This comprehensive Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe recreates the restaurant's beloved comfort food using authentic cracker barrel meatloaf ingredients. The recipe yields 8 servings and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Featuring a perfect blend of ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings, this meatloaf delivers the same satisfying flavors that have made it a restaurant favorite for decades.
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Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x5 inch loaf pan
  • Medium skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • Aluminum foil
  • Small saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 cup fine breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Add the cooled sautéed vegetables to the mixture.
  • Mix Thoroughly: Using clean hands or a large spoon, gently mix all cracker barrel meatloaf ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
  • Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing gently to shape into an even loaf. Smooth the top surface with your hands.
  • Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
  • Initial Baking: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Apply Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the top evenly with half of the prepared glaze. Return to the oven and continue baking for 15-20 minutes.
  • Final Glazing: Apply the remaining glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking time for a beautiful, caramelized finish.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meatloaf should be firm to the touch and the glaze should be glossy.
  • Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices.

Notes

The quality of your cracker barrel meatloaf ingredients directly impacts the final result. Choose ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for optimal moisture and flavor. Overmixing the meat mixture can result in a dense texture, so combine ingredients gently until just incorporated. If the mixture seems too wet, add additional breadcrumbs gradually. For even cooking, ensure all vegetables are diced to uniform sizes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety, but avoid overcooking to maintain