Description
A juicy, flavorful copycat version of Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf, topped with a sweet‑and‑tangy glaze
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds 80/20 ground beef (about 24 ounces)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1½ sleeves)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- ½ green bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 cups fresh shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Topping:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add the ground beef to a large bowl and break it up into large crumbs.
- Add the rest of the “Meatloaf” ingredients to the beef and mix well to fully combine; you can use your hands.
- Cover a baking dish with aluminum foil, grease with cooking spray. Transfer the meat mixture into the center of the dish and shape into a loaf; or use a 9×5‑inch meatloaf pan.
- Bake the loaf for 30 minutes.
- While it bakes, stir together all the “Topping” ingredients in a small bowl.
- After the first 30 minutes of baking, spread the topping over the meatloaf and continue baking another 20‑30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature at the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use ground beef with some fat (80/20) for moisture; leaner beef may lead to a drier loaf.
- Use fresh shredded cheese instead of pre‑shredded—pre‑shredded cheese has anti‑caking agents that can absorb moisture.
- If not a fan of green bell pepper, you can use red or omit it entirely.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture—mix enough to combine, but overworking can make a tough loaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing so juices redistribute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 538 cal
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 751 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: –
- Trans Fat: –
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 166 mg
