Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep & build the meatloaf
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a large bowl, combine seasoned bread crumbs and whole milk, then let sit for 2 minutes so the crumbs absorb the milk.
- Add beaten eggs, diced yellow onion, diced green bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, then stir to combine.
- Add ground beef and ground pork, and mix gently with your hands just until combined so the loaf stays tender and not dense.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf in the prepared pan or free-form on the baking sheet.
Glaze & bake
- Stir together ketchup, packed light brown sugar, and yellow mustard until smooth, then spread half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, until the top begins to set.
- Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to the oven for 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the glaze turns caramelized, glossy, and slightly dark at the edges.
Rest & serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing so juices stay inside and you get clean, thick slices.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for classic Cracker Barrel-style comfort.
Notes
For the juiciest slices, avoid compacting the meat when mixing—stop as soon as the ingredients are just combined. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezing is yes: wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating. For a lower-sodium option, use reduced-salt breadcrumbs and swap to low-sodium Worcestershire while keeping the same glaze proportions.
