Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is a popular comfort food dish that’s rich and flavorful, usually served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. While the exact recipe is proprietary, here’s a simple version inspired by Cracker Barrel’s style of meatloaf that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 lb ground pork (or use all ground beef if preferred)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons ketchup (for the meat mixture)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• For the glaze:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. You can also shape it by hand if you prefer a more rustic shape and place it on a baking sheet.

4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

6. Serve: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or any of your favorite sides.

Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf!