Here’s a comforting, classic-style Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe inspired by the famous restaurant’s hearty, homestyle flavors. It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a tangy-sweet glaze — perfect served with mashed potatoes and green beans.
🍖🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 1 hour
🍽️ Serves: 6
🧂 Ingredients
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2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
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1/2 cup whole milk
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2 large eggs
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup ketchup
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the glaze:
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1/3 cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
🔥 Instructions
1. Preheat oven:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the meatloaf:
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In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
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Add ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
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Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until combined, but don’t overmix.
3. Shape & bake:
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Transfer mixture to the loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
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Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
4. Add the glaze:
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Mix together glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
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Remove meatloaf from oven and spread glaze evenly over the top.
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Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C).
5. Rest & serve:
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Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Add veggies: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra moisture and nutrition.
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Cheesy twist: Place a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the middle before baking.
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Make it without a loaf pan: Shape the meatloaf on a baking sheet for a crispy crust all around.