Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Topping:
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, green bell pepper, eggs, milk, crushed crackers, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread this topping evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or buttery corn for a true homestyle meal.
Tips for Best Results:
Finely chop the vegetables so they blend smoothly into the meatloaf.
Letting the meatloaf rest is key to keeping it juicy.
Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day.
This Cracker Barrel meatloaf is tender, comforting, and full of classic homestyle flavor, just like the restaurant favorite that keeps people coming back for more.