Preparing the Meatloaf:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onions, green bell pepper, eggs, and milk. Mix gently to combine. Add the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, crushed crackers, and quick oats. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s even in size for uniform cooking.
Preparing the Glaze:
- Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Apply to Meatloaf: Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the remaining glaze to apply later or to serve on the side.
Baking the Meatloaf:
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
- Glaze Again: Halfway through the baking process, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.
- Rest Before Serving: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist and easy to slice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve your Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or macaroni and cheese for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Bread: A slice of buttered cornbread or a roll can complement the flavors of the meatloaf and help soak up any extra glaze or juices.
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf:
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking is crucial for it to retain its juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to tweak the glaze ingredients to suit your taste. Adding a little Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika can introduce new flavor dimensions.
Recreating the Cracker Barrel meatloaf at home offers a taste of the comfort and simplicity of down-home cooking. This recipe provides a straightforward approach to achieving that familiar, cozy dining experience in your own dining room. Enjoy the process of making this beloved dish and the delicious results that follow.