This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground beef with veggies, breadcrumbs, and a touch of sharp Cheddar cheese for richness. The sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar takes this classic meatloaf to the next level. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and results in a delicious, juicy meatloaf with a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs 90% lean ground beef
- ½ white onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3 eggs, beaten
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly once it goes into the oven.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients and Vegetables:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, eggs, milk, and shredded Cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Combine the Meat and Breadcrumbs:
- In the same bowl, add the ground beef, parsley, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon, but be careful not to overmix. Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a smooth, even loaf. Tip: If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the meatloaf by hand on a lined baking sheet.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. This allows the loaf to cook and firm up before adding the glaze.
6. Make the Glaze:
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Stir until most of the sugar has dissolved, creating a smooth sauce.
7. Glaze the Meatloaf:
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the top of the loaf, coating it generously for maximum flavor.
8. Continue Baking:
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf sit for about 15 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to settle before slicing.
Description and Tips:
This meatloaf recipe delivers a delicious blend of flavors and textures, from the savory beef to the slight sweetness of the glaze. The addition of red bell peppers and onions gives it a slight crunch, while the sharp Cheddar adds richness.
Tips:
- Do not overmix the meat mixture. Overworking the meat will make it tough. Combine just until everything is evenly distributed.
- For extra flavor, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps lock in the juices, ensuring every slice is moist and tender.
Enjoy this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side for a comforting, satisfying meal!
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