Got it! Here’s a self-contained Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf recipe with no external references:
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1.5 lb ground beef
- 3 large eggs
- 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers (crushed)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup finely diced yellow onion
- ¼ cup finely diced green bell pepper
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Prepare the meat mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add crushed crackers, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until combined.
- Gently mix in the ground beef, taking care not to overwork the meat.
- Shape and bake:
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze:
- While the meatloaf bakes, mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
- Glaze and finish baking:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes and brush the glaze evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 °F (71 °C).
- Rest and serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite sides.
If you want, I can also give a slow cooker version that makes the meatloaf extra tender and perfect for a hands-off meal. Do you want me to make that version too?
