Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why This Meatloaf Is the Star of Dinner Recipes
- What Makes This Meatloaf So Irresistibly Good?
- A Southern Classic That Deserves a Spot on Your Table
- My Favorite Time to Serve This Comfort Food
- Tips for Getting the Perfect Texture Every Time
- Let’s Talk About Leftovers—Yes, They’re Worth It!
- Recipe Instructions
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf is a go-to for easy recipes that deliver comfort and satisfaction. It combines classic Southern flavors, a sweet tangy glaze, and pantry-staple ingredients to create a juicy, flavorful dish your whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight meals, dinner gatherings, or cozy nights at home.
Why This Meatloaf Is the Star of Dinner Recipes
When it comes to reliable, no-fail dinner recipes, nothing beats a hearty meatloaf that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Southern kitchen. I’ve tried dozens of variations, but this Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf hits all the right notes: moist, cheesy, flavorful, and topped with a sticky-sweet glaze that’s downright addictive.
What Makes This Meatloaf So Irresistibly Good?
The secret is in the balance—savory beef, melty cheddar, crisp green peppers, and that glorious brown sugar glaze. Plus, you probably already have everything on hand to whip it up tonight. It’s ideal for recipes for dinner that need to impress without a lot of effort. Patricia from Patricia Universe wanted this dish to reflect the warmth of a homemade meal—and it truly does.
A Southern Classic That Deserves a Spot on Your Table
If you grew up eating meatloaf every Sunday, this version will transport you right back to grandma’s kitchen. It’s everything you want in quick and easy recipes: familiar, filling, and foolproof. And unlike bland or dry meatloaves of the past, this one practically melts in your mouth.
My Favorite Time to Serve This Comfort Food
We’re all about dinner recipes that fit into real life. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a potluck dinner with neighbors, this meatloaf delivers. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or even mac & cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Bonus? It tastes even better the next day.
Tips for Getting the Perfect Texture Every Time
Want that just-right tenderness without falling apart? Use the exact amount of crushed crackers and don’t overmix your meat. A meat thermometer is your best friend here—160°F is the sweet spot. This is one of those food receipt easy recipes that doesn’t require a culinary degree, just a little patience and a lot of love.
Let’s Talk About Leftovers—Yes, They’re Worth It!
This meatloaf is the meal that keeps on giving. Cold slices are amazing in sandwiches the next day, and you can even crumble leftovers into a pasta dish for a next-level flavor bomb. That’s why it’s one of my top sweet easy recipes when it comes to making dinner stretch further without sacrificing quality.
Recipe Instructions
Follow the recipe card below for step-by-step instructions on making this Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf at home. It’s simple, affordable, and sure to become part of your regular rotation.
Notes & Tips
For a lighter take, try swapping the ground beef with lean ground turkey. You can also use low-fat cheese or omit it altogether. And if you like a little heat, a dash of cayenne in the glaze adds a nice kick. For more air fryer desserts easy recipes or savory ideas, head over to Patricia Universe where I share all my favorite comfort food creations.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: A Southern Classic for Dinner Recipes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup finely diced green pepper
- 1 1/2 sleeves Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers), crushed
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, green pepper, crushed crackers, shredded cheddar, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
- Remove meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes and pour glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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