Description
This delicious and comforting meatloaf is inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel recipe, featuring a savory blend of ground beef, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 sleeve (about 30-35 crackers) Ritz crackers, finely crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Glaze (Optional, but recommended):
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a loaf pan. - Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, milk or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. - Mix Gently:
Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough. - Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. - Make the Glaze (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. - Glaze the Meatloaf (Optional):
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf if using. - Bake:
Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the juices run clear. - Rest:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meatloaf more tender.
Notes
- Meat Choices: Use ground chuck, ground sirloin, or a mixture of ground beef and pork for variety.
- Ritz Cracker Substitute: You can substitute Ritz crackers with other buttery crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Vegetable Variations: Add diced vegetables like carrots or celery to the meatloaf for extra flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicier twist.
- Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese in place of cheddar.
- Gravy: Serve the meatloaf with a side of gravy for a heartier meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8th of the loaf)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg