Homestyle Comfort Classic

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🏡 Homestyle Comfort Classic: Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

Nothing says comfort food quite like a thick, juicy slice of old-fashioned meatloaf. Inspired by the beloved Cracker Barrel classic, this hearty dish brings together tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a sweet tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and brings everyone running to the table. Perfect for Sunday dinners, cozy evenings, or whenever you’re craving something nostalgic and satisfying.

If you love homestyle cooking, this one is for you. ❤️

Comment “Yummy” if you’d like more comforting recipes like this!

🥩 Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf Recipe

📝 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sweet Glaze:

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
    ⚠️ Do not overmix — this keeps the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape

Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your prepared pan or on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together:

  • Ketchup
  • Brown sugar

Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.

Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.

Return to oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.

🔥 Cooking Methods

🏠 Oven Method (Classic)

Best for traditional texture and caramelized glaze.

🌡 Air Fryer Method

Cook at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes (depending on thickness). Add glaze halfway through.

🥘 Skillet & Oven Combo

Brown lightly in a skillet first for extra flavor, then finish baking in oven.

📖 A Little History

Meatloaf has been a staple in American kitchens since the late 1800s. It became especially popular during the Great Depression as an affordable way to stretch ground meat with fillers like breadcrumbs and milk.

Cracker Barrel’s version is famous for its sweet, tangy glaze and soft, tender texture, giving it that nostalgic “grandma’s kitchen” feel.

🍽 Formation & Texture

A perfect meatloaf should be:
✔️ Moist but not greasy
✔️ Firm enough to slice
✔️ Soft and tender inside
✔️ Slightly caramelized on top

The milk and breadcrumbs help bind the meat while keeping it juicy, and the glaze forms a sticky, flavorful topping.

❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Meatloaf

  • It’s simple and affordable
  • Family-friendly
  • Perfect for leftovers
  • Makes amazing meatloaf sandwiches the next day
  • Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and green beans

Comfort food lovers know — this recipe feels like home.

🍽 Perfect Side Pairings

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Buttery corn
  • Mac and cheese
  • Green beans
  • Fresh dinner rolls

🏁 Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is the definition of homestyle comfort cooking. Tender, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible sweet glaze — it’s a dinner classic that never goes out of style.

Make it once, and it might just become a regular on your family table.

Comment “Yummy” if you’d like more cozy, homestyle recipes like this! 😋

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