### **Cracker Barrel Meatloaf**
#### **Introduction**
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful comfort food that brings together ground beef, a blend of seasonings, and a tangy glaze in a simple yet satisfying dish. Known for its classic American flavors, this meatloaf is the epitome of home-cooked comfort food, with a moist, tender texture and a savory taste that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, and other traditional sides. Cracker Barrel’s take on meatloaf has become a favorite in many households, with its combination of savory meat, vegetables, and a sweet, zesty ketchup-based glaze that adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Meatloaf, a quintessential American dish, has roots dating back to the 18th century, when ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs or oats became a way to stretch meals in times of scarcity. The dish gained popularity during the Great Depression and post-World War II era, as it was an affordable way to feed large families. Over the years, meatloaf evolved with various regional and personal twists, and today, it’s often seen as a comforting staple in both home kitchens and restaurant menus.
Cracker Barrel, founded in 1969, brought its own signature twist to meatloaf, blending traditional ingredients with a special glaze, making it a standout dish on their menu. The restaurant chain, known for its nostalgic Americana theme, has helped cement meatloaf as a beloved comfort food in American dining culture.
#### **Ingredients and Quantities**
**For the Meatloaf:**
– 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80% lean for the best flavor)
– 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
**For the Glaze:**
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional for a tangier flavor)
#### **Optional Additions**
– **Vegetables**: Add 1/2 cup finely grated carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
– **Cheese**: Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the meatloaf for extra richness and flavor.
– **Herbs**: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano can be added to the meatloaf mixture to give it a more vibrant flavor.
– **Bacon**: For a smoky twist, incorporate finely chopped cooked bacon into the meat mixture or wrap the meatloaf in bacon strips before baking.
– **Spices**: For extra warmth, add 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
#### **Tips for Success**
– **Don’t overmix**: Overmixing the meat mixture can lead to a dense meatloaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the texture light and tender.
– **Moisture balance**: Ensure the meatloaf mixture is moist but not too wet. If it feels dry, add a little more milk; if it’s too wet, you can add extra breadcrumbs.
– **Rest after baking**: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures a cleaner cut.
– **Use lean ground beef**: While it’s tempting to use fattier beef for extra flavor, lean ground beef (80% lean) strikes the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor without being too greasy.
– **Glaze customization**: Adjust the sweetness or tang of the glaze to your liking by adding more sugar, mustard, or vinegar.
#### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the meat mixture**: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, milk, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf light.
3. **Form the meatloaf**: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape.
4. **Make the glaze**: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using).
5. **Glaze the meatloaf**: Spoon half of the glaze over the meatloaf and spread it evenly across the top.
6. **Bake**: Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. Halfway through baking, you can add the remaining glaze on top for extra flavor.
7. **Rest and slice**: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. **Serve**: Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
#### **Description**
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a savory, comforting dish made from a simple blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings. It’s topped with a tangy and slightly sweet glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. The glaze adds a glossy finish and a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory, tender meatloaf. The dish is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner, offering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors in every bite.
#### **Nutritional Information** (per serving, based on 8 servings)
– **Calories**: ~300 kcal
– **Protein**: 24g
– **Carbohydrates**: 20g
– **Fat**: 16g
– **Saturated Fat**: 6g
– **Cholesterol**: 80mg
– **Sodium**: 600mg
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 10g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient choices, such as using leaner ground beef or adjusting the glaze.)
#### **Conclusion**
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a simple yet flavorful dish that has become a staple in American comfort food. The tender, juicy meatloaf topped with a tangy and sweet glaze is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its savory flavor profile and nostalgic appeal, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
#### **Recommendation**
Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete the meal. If you want to make it even more special, pair it with a glass of red wine or iced tea for a casual, comforting dining experience.
#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While meatloaf is often considered a rich and indulgent dish, there are simple ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor. Use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter version. You can also swap in whole-grain breadcrumbs for a bit more fiber or add extra vegetables like spinach or grated zucchini for added nutrition. By making small adjustments, you can still enjoy this classic comfort food while keeping it a little lighter and healthier.