Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel and enjoyed their delicious meatloaf, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf right in your own kitchen. Get ready for a hearty, flavorful meal that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients:
For the meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried sage
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions, green bell pepper, celery, and carrots until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, and all the dried herbs. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans.
With this Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of a beloved restaurant right in the comfort of your home. It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Give it a try, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
