Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a mouthwatering comfort food that encapsulates the essence of nostalgia and flavor, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs Use fresh for best texture
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and basil.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a consistent blend. Your hands are the best tools for this job.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 5 x 9-inch loaf pan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Spread this flavorful sauce evenly over the meatloaf.
Cooking
- Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour. Ensure it’s cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, which should read 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked to perfection, remove your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
Use fresh breadcrumbs for a superior texture and taste. The green bell pepper adds a delightful crunch and flavor; don’t skip it. Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing allows the flavors to meld for an exceptional dining experience.