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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Irresistibly Juicy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf You’ll Love

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting dish that combines rich ground beef, sharp cheddar, and a sweet ketchup glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds ground beef lean versions work too
  • 1 cup Ritz Crackers crushed, can substitute with saltines or panko
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese can swap for Monterey Jack or Colby
  • 1/2 cup milk use unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free
  • 1 medium green bell pepper can substitute with red or yellow peppers
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup can substitute with barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar apple cider vinegar is a lighter alternative

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Loaf pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
  1. Preheat the Oven by setting it to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables by heating a splash of oil in a skillet and cooking chopped onions and green bell peppers for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Combine the Ingredients in a large mixing bowl by mixing ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, sautéed veggies, sharp cheddar, and milk until just combined.
  4. Shape the Meatloaf by transferring the mixture into a greased loaf pan or shaping it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Prepare the Glaze by mixing ketchup and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl and pouring it over the meatloaf.
  6. Bake the Meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. Rest and Serve by allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

To keep the meatloaf juicy, use ground beef with some fat content. Resting the meatloaf ensures it's flavorful and tender.

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