Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Enjoy a delicious, tender Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe that replicates the original flavor loved by all families.
Equipment
- Loaf Pan
Ingredients
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 cup yellow onion finely diced
- 0.5 cup bell pepper finely diced
- 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef see notes for alternative meat suggestion
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 whole eggs whisked
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
- 0.5-0.75 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Sauté the diced peppers and onions in a small pan with the olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This gives them a more subtle flavor and texture. Set aside and let cool.
- Combine the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, and salt/pepper in a large bowl.
- Add ground beef and mix until just combined. Don't overwork the meat, we want tender results.
- Form it in a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. Not using a loaf pan can result in the loaf falling apart. It also takes much longer to cook, which causes it to dry out.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Combine the topping ingredients while it bakes and set aside.
- Remove the meatloaf and brush on the topping. Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes. (Pull it once it reaches 155 degrees.)
- Let it rest for 15 minutes in the loaf pan prior to slicing in. It will increase 8-10 degrees in temperature during this time. Slicing in too early also causes the juices to leak out. Ensure the middle is 160 degrees before you slice it.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Notes
For a more tender and flavorful meatloaf, consider using a 3-meat combination of ground beef, pork, and veal. Some people also like to place the meatloaf over a few slices of fresh bread to soak up any excess grease.
Nutrition
Serving: 1sliceCalories: 445kcal
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