Description
Struggling to perfect meatloaf? Our Meatloaf Cracker Barrel guide reveals pro tricks for tender, homestyle magic. Learn the easy steps now!
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (80/20 blend for the right balance of lean and fat): Provides that hearty, rich flavor you crave. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Bread Crumbs (preferably fresh or panko): Adds texture and moisture to the loaf. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oatmeal.
- Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
- Milk (1 cup): Keeps the loaf moist and tender. You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Shallots can also be used for a milder taste.
- Ketchup (½ cup): Essential for both flavor and the signature glaze. If you want something bolder, you can use BBQ sauce instead.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Provides a savory, umami flavor that elevates the taste.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) and Salt (to taste): For basic seasoning, you can also add garlic cloves for a more robust garlic flavor.
- Pepper (½ teaspoon): A pinch of black pepper is all you need to add a mild kick
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and have a beautifully browned exterior.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until fully combined. This step is crucial—don’t overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf dense.
Once the meat mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf form. Place it in a greased baking pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure the loaf is evenly shaped so that it cooks uniformly.
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
For the signature Cracker Barrel flavor, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. This adds a sweet, tangy glaze that’s key to replicating the restaurant-style meatloaf.
Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful
- Prep Time: PT20M
- Cook Time: PT60M
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American Southern cuisine
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g