Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s loved for its hearty flavors and satisfying texture. This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe takes traditional meatloaf to the next level with a delicious combination of ingredients that make it both flavorful and moist. Featuring a blend of ground beef, vegetables, and a tangy topping, it’s a dish that will remind you of your favorite homestyle diner meals.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a comforting meal, this meatloaf recipe is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is guaranteed to become a new favorite at your dinner table. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Comfort Food at Its Best
This meatloaf is a classic, delivering the comforting flavors you remember from family dinners and diner meals.
2. Simple Ingredients
Using just a few basic ingredients, this meatloaf comes together quickly and easily. The flavor comes from a perfect balance of ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings.
3. Moist and Flavorful
The addition of breadcrumbs, eggs, and tomato sauce ensures the meatloaf remains moist and full of flavor, avoiding the dryness that sometimes plagues this dish.
4. Perfect for Leftovers
Meatloaf is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, making for an easy lunch or dinner.
5. A Crowd-Pleaser
With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this meatloaf is perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. It’s an easy meal to prepare that will leave everyone full and happy.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Medium onion, chopped
- Medium green pepper, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Tomato sauce
- Ketchup
- Salt
- Pepper
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey to make a leaner version of this meatloaf.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheese to the meat mixture or sprinkle cheese on top for a cheesy, gooey twist.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the meat mixture to add some heat.
- Vegetarian Meatloaf: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils, quinoa, and vegetables for a plant-based option.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Use barbecue sauce in place of ketchup for a smoky, tangy flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish, shaping it into a loaf shape. Make sure the loaf is evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This gives it a flavorful glaze as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F, and the top is browned and caramelized.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once the meatloaf is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and serving more tender.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the meatloaf into pieces and serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatloaf tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner meatloaf, use ground beef with a lower fat content, but be mindful that it may be slightly drier.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through. The ideal internal temperature is 160°F.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is key to retaining moisture and making it easier to slice.
- Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with adding other herbs or spices like garlic powder, thyme, or oregano to suit your taste.
How to Serve
Cracker Barrel meatloaf is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, or a green salad for a hearty, balanced meal. It’s also great in a sandwich the next day for lunch. Simply slice the meatloaf and place it between two slices of bread with a dollop of ketchup or mustard.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Freezing
You can freeze meatloaf for later enjoyment. After baking and cooling, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Reheating
To reheat leftover meatloaf, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, depending on the thickness.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option. You may need to add a little extra seasoning to make it flavorful.
2. How can I make my meatloaf more flavorful?
Experiment with adding additional herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavor.
3. Can I use a loaf pan instead of a baking dish?
Yes, you can use a loaf pan if you prefer. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as the meatloaf may cook slightly faster in a pan.
4. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.
5. What is the best way to reheat meatloaf?
To reheat meatloaf, bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it in individual slices for 1-2 minutes.
6. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes! Adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the meatloaf.
7. How can I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
Be sure not to overbake the meatloaf, and use breadcrumbs or oats to help keep the texture moist.
8. How long can I keep leftover meatloaf in the refrigerator?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
9. Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
10. Can I make mini meatloafs instead of one large loaf?
Yes, you can divide the mixture into smaller portions to make individual meatloafs. These will cook faster, so reduce the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe is a timeless, comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and makes for great leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping, or serving it for a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy. With its moist texture, delicious seasoning, and tangy ketchup topping, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
PrintCracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A classic, hearty meatloaf with a savory blend of ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. A delicious comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup on top.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour