Here’s a comforting, homestyle recipe inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel Meatloaf — moist, flavorful, and topped with a tangy glaze just like at the restaurant.
🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
🛒 Ingredients:
Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines)
1 cup milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 large eggs
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
Glaze:
1 cup ketchup
3 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
🥣 Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
Soak Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine milk and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.
Mix Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix — it keeps the meatloaf tender).
Shape and Bake:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or place into a loaf pan.
Prepare Glaze:
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar in a bowl.
Bake & Glaze:
Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to oven and bake another 15-20 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C).
Rest & Serve:
Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
