Cracked Barrel Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Favorite

Introduction

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can compare to the delicious heartiness of meatloaf. The Cracked Barrel Meatloaf recipe takes this beloved dish to new heights with its tender texture, flavorful seasoning, and signature glaze. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or new to this hearty dish, Cracked Barrel Meatloaf is a must-try that will satisfy your taste buds and feed your family with ease.

Meatloaf has long been a favorite in many households. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to your table and nostalgia with every bite. If you’re looking to make a comforting, savory dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. For a closer look at the history and variations of meatloaf, check out this History of Meatloaf article.

In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to creating Cracked Barrel Meatloaf, highlighting the unique ingredients and techniques that give it its signature flavor. Plus, we’ll give you tips for variations and other meal suggestions that complement this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cracked Barrel Meatloaf is perfect for anyone who enjoys a rich, flavor-packed meal that doesn’t require a lot of effort. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Tender, juicy texture thanks to a careful balance of ingredients
Savory seasoning with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Classic meatloaf glaze for a glossy finish that’s irresistible
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cracked Barrel Meatloaf is its simplicity. The following ingredients come together to create a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor.

For the Meatloaf:

2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80% lean for the perfect texture)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (use panko or regular, depending on your preference)
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
1 large egg
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For more tips on choosing the best ground beef for meatloaf, check out this guide to ground beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 2: Form the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. If you prefer a crispier texture on all sides, use a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
Use your hands to smooth the top and ensure it’s evenly shaped.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. This mixture will form the sweet and tangy glaze that gives the meatloaf its signature flavor.
Stir the glaze ingredients together until smooth.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake

Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

For detailed guidance on the best ways to bake a meatloaf, check out Food Network’s Meatloaf Baking Tips.

Serving Suggestions

Cracked Barrel Meatloaf is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great ideas for serving it:

Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with meatloaf and help balance out the savory flavors.
Roasted vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, or green beans for added crunch and freshness.
Cornbread: A slice of moist cornbread is a great way to round out a southern-style meal.
Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness of the meatloaf.

If you’re looking for more side dish ideas to complete your meal, check out this collection of Meatloaf Side Dishes.

Variations and Substitutions

While this Cracked Barrel Meatloaf recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own by tweaking the ingredients. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

Use different meats: While ground beef is the traditional choice, feel free to swap in ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version. For a richer taste, you could also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
Add vegetables: You can incorporate finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture to add moisture and extra flavor.
Spicy meatloaf: If you love a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also use spicy mustard for a zesty glaze.
Cheesy meatloaf: Add some cheddar cheese or mozzarella to the center of the meatloaf for a cheesy surprise when you slice it.

For even more meatloaf variations, check out this meatloaf variation guide.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Cracked Barrel Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overmix: When mixing the meat, make sure to combine the ingredients gently. Overmixing can cause the meatloaf to become tough.
Rest the meatloaf: Once it’s done baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more moist and tender.
Use a thermometer: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for the meatloaf to be fully cooked.
Glaze carefully: Be sure to add the glaze halfway through cooking and again towards the end. This ensures that it doesn’t burn and gives it that perfect finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While meatloaf is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some things to avoid:

Not using the right meat: Avoid using lean ground beef, as it can lead to a dry meatloaf. Aim for about 80% lean meat to keep it juicy.
Not seasoning enough: Don’t skimp on the seasonings. A well-seasoned meatloaf will have a rich and balanced flavor.
Not letting the meatloaf rest: If you cut into it right after baking, the juices will spill out. Letting it rest ensures it holds together better when slicing.

FAQs

Can I make Cracked Barrel Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply add the glaze and cook as directed.

Can I freeze meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked meatloaf or the uncooked meat mixture. For best results, freeze it before baking and then cook from frozen. Add extra time to the baking process if you’re cooking it from frozen.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar, or try balsamic vinegar for a more robust flavor.

Conclusion

Cracked Barrel Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a sweet and tangy glaze for a meal that will leave everyone satisfied. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this recipe is simple to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion.

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