Here is a comprehensive guide to making a Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, complete with all the sections you requested.
Introduction
There are few dishes that evoke the warmth and nostalgia of a home-cooked meal quite like meatloaf. It’s the quintessential American comfort food, a hearty and satisfying dish that has graced dinner tables for generations. Among the countless variations, the meatloaf served at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store holds a special place in the hearts of many . It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience—a taste of Southern hospitality and simple, honest cooking.
This recipe is your guide to recreating that magic in your own kitchen. We’ll unlock the secrets to a moist, flavorful meatloaf with a tender texture and that signature sweet and tangy glaze. Get ready to bring the taste of Cracker Barrel home, creating a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, comfort food cravings, and making new memories around the table.
History of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
While meatloaf itself has ancient roots, it became a staple in American households during the Great Depression as an economical way to feed a family . The version we know and love today from Cracker Barrel is a product of the restaurant’s founding in 1969 by Dan Evins in Lebanon, Tennessee . His vision was to create a roadside eatery that felt like a welcoming country store, offering travelers a taste of authentic, homestyle Southern cooking.
The meatloaf fit perfectly into this vision. It was a familiar, comforting dish that reminded people of Sunday dinners at their grandmother’s house . Made with quality ingredients and a dedication to traditional methods, the Cracker Barrel meatloaf quickly became a menu standout. Its consistency and nostalgic flavor turned first-time visitors into loyal fans, solidifying its place as a beloved classic in American restaurant culture .
Benefits of Making This Recipe
· Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy your favorite Cracker Barrel dish without the drive or the wait.
· Crowd-Pleaser: This hearty, flavorful meatloaf is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings.
· Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s an economical way to create a memorable and satisfying meal.
· Leftover Magic: Meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making for incredible sandwiches or a quick and easy second dinner .
· Customizable: The recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily adapt with different meats, cheeses, or mix-ins.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
· 2 pounds 80/20 lean ground beef
· 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 small onion)
· 1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper
· 1 ½ sleeves of Ritz crackers, finely crushed (about 1 ½ to 2 cups)
· 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
· ½ cup whole milk
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Signature Glaze:
· ¾ cup ketchup
· 2 ½ tablespoons brown sugar, packed
· 1 ½ teaspoons yellow mustard
Instruction and Method
1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil for easy cleanup, or lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan .
2. Sauté the Vegetables (Optional but Recommended): For a more subtle flavor and softer texture, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly .
3. Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed (or raw) onions and bell peppers, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper .
4. Mix Gently: Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough, dense meatloaf .
5. Form the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 8-9 inches long and 4-5 inches wide .
6. First Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes .
7. Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until smooth .
8. Glaze and Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the loaf. Return it to the oven and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) on an instant-read meat thermometer .
9. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10-15 minutes . This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful. Slice and serve warm.
Formation and Texture
The magic of this meatloaf lies in its perfect texture, achieved through a careful balance of ingredients. The 80/20 ground beef provides enough fat to keep the loaf moist and juicy without being greasy . The crushed Ritz crackers act as a binder, but unlike breadcrumbs, they absorb moisture without becoming gummy, contributing to a famously light and tender crumb . The eggs and milk create a custard-like consistency that further enhances the moisture, while the finely diced onions and bell peppers melt into the loaf as it bakes, adding pockets of flavor and extra tenderness . The final, non-negotiable step is resting the loaf, which solidifies the structure and locks in all the savory juices .
Nutrition Information
Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. The following information is based on a standard copycat recipe and restaurant data .
Nutrient Amount per Serving (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
Calories 445 – 520 kcal
Protein 25 – 35 g
Fat 31 – 35 g
Carbohydrates 15 – 23 g
Sodium 630 – 930 mg
Conclusion and Call to Meatloaf Lovers
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a ticket to comfort, a slice of nostalgia, and a surefire way to bring loved ones together. It captures the very essence of what makes Cracker Barrel so special—simple, high-quality ingredients transformed with care into a dish that feeds both the body and the soul .
To all the meatloaf lovers out there, this one’s for you. Fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with an irresistible aroma. We guarantee that once you try this version, it will become a regular request at your dinner table. Don’t be surprised if your family asks, “When are you making that Cracker Barrel meatloaf again?” Happy cooking