Are you craving the comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf? Now you can enjoy that same delicious flavor right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe. Packed with juicy ground beef, diced tomatoes, and a flavorful topping, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes with onion and green pepper, drained
• ½ green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon mustard

Directions:

1. Oven Method:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, drained tomatoes, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beaten eggs, milk, and black pepper. Fold in the crushed crackers.
   • Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
   • In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and mustard to create the topping. Spread this mixture over the partially baked meatloaf.
   • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.

2. Air Fryer Method:

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Spray 2 mini loaf pans with cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, drained tomatoes, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beaten eggs, milk, and black pepper. Fold in the crushed crackers.
• Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly between the prepared mini loaf pans. Place them in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry for 30 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and mustard to create the topping. Spread this mixture over the partially cooked meatloaf.
• Return the mini loaf pans to the air fryer and continue to air fry for an additional 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Remove from the air fryer and let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes (oven) / 37 minutes (air fryer)

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (oven) / 42 minutes (air fryer)

Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving Suggestions: Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze leftover meatloaf for longer storage. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations:

1. Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a leaner option.
2. Vegetarian Meatloaf: Use cooked lentils, quinoa, or a combination of beans and vegetables as a meat substitute.
3. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded cheese or cheese slices in the middle of the meatloaf for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
4. BBQ Glazed Meatloaf: Brush the meatloaf with your favorite barbecue sauce before baking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
5. Italian Meatloaf: Add Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture for an Italian-inspired twist.
6. Mushroom Gravy: Serve the meatloaf with a creamy mushroom gravy instead of the traditional ketchup topping.
7. Spicy Meatloaf: Mix chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
8. Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice leftover meatloaf and serve it between two slices of bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a tasty sandwich.
9. Meatloaf Meatballs: Roll the meatloaf mixture into balls and bake them in the oven until cooked through. Serve as appetizers with dipping sauce.
10. Greek-Inspired Meatloaf: Add feta cheese, spinach, and Greek seasoning to the meat mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
11. Tex-Mex Meatloaf: Incorporate diced green chilies, corn kernels, and taco seasoning into the meat mixture. Top the meatloaf with salsa and shredded cheese before baking for a Southwestern twist.
12. Honey Glazed Meatloaf: Brush the meatloaf with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
13. Mediterranean Meatloaf: Mix in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese into the meat mixture. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean flair.
14. Asian-Inspired Meatloaf: Add minced ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to the meat mixture. Top with a sesame-ginger glaze made with soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
15. Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef and mix in buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, and diced celery into the meat mixture. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
16. French Onion Meatloaf: Mix in caramelized onions, Gruyere cheese, and fresh thyme into the meat mixture. Top the meatloaf with additional caramelized onions and a sprinkle of cheese before baking for a rich and savory flavor.
17. Caprese Meatloaf: Layer slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and tomato slices in the middle of the meatloaf before baking. Top with chopped basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad.