Looking for the best homemade meatloaf recipe? This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make! Made with lean ground beef, cheddar cheese, and a sweet ketchup glaze, this moist meatloaf is packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this classic meatloaf recipe is sure to become a favorite. The perfect meatloaf glaze combines ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, creating a tangy and sweet topping that complements the savory meat perfectly. Serve it with mashed potatoes, veggies, or a side salad for a comforting meal. If you’re craving a classic, tender, and delicious meatloaf, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds every time! Perfect for home cooks of all levels.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 lbs 90% lean ground beef
½ white onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
3 eggs, beaten
⅓ cup milk
½ cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons mustard

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, parsley, beaten eggs, milk, and shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan, shaping it into a uniform loaf.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, uncovered.
Prepare the Glaze:
- While the meatloaf bakes, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Glaze and Continue Baking:
- After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the prepared ketchup glaze evenly over the top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Let it Rest:
- After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tips

Avoid Overmixing: To keep the meatloaf tender, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make it dense and tough.
Resting Time is Key: Let the meatloaf rest after baking to make sure it slices cleanly and stays juicy.
Meat Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Variations: Swap sharp Cheddar with mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: You can add finely grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added moisture and nutrition.
Breadcrumb Substitutes: Use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even oats as a substitute for seasoned breadcrumbs.
Meat Choices: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this classic meatloaf.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf, assemble it in the pan, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add extra time to the cooking process if baking from cold.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from being too greasy?
Use lean ground beef (90% lean) to help keep the meatloaf moist without excess fat. You can also drain any excess fat after the first 30 minutes of baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a comforting, complete meal.
Pair with a slice of fresh bread to soak up the savory juices.
For a hearty dinner, serve with macaroni and cheese or a baked potato on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Comfort Food: This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please the entire family.
Simple and Tasty: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal, this meatloaf is versatile and perfect for any time you need a satisfying dish.