If you’ve ever visited Cracker Barrel and tasted their comforting meatloaf, you know it’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Well, the good news is that you can recreate this beloved classic at home, and the best part? You can do it in your air fryer! The Air Fryer Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is the perfect balance of juicy, tender meat with that mouthwatering glaze on top, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe even more amazing is the simplicity and speed of cooking in the air fryer. You get all the rich flavors you love from the Cracker Barrel version but in a fraction of the time. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll have a homemade meatloaf that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can start making this juicy, flavorful meatloaf for your next meal!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star of this recipe, providing the meaty base for your meatloaf. For the best texture, use a mix of lean and fatty ground beef to ensure it’s juicy and tender when cooked.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are essential for helping the meatloaf hold together and giving it that perfect texture. They soak up the juices from the meat and help keep it moist during cooking.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder in the meatloaf, helping to hold the mixture together. It also adds a little richness and flavor to the final dish.
Onion: Chopped onions add a savory, slightly sweet flavor to the meatloaf, making it more flavorful and aromatic. They help balance the richness of the beef.
Milk: Milk works in tandem with the breadcrumbs to keep the meatloaf moist. It helps to hydrate the breadcrumbs and adds a creamy richness to the dish.
Ketchup: Ketchup is used both in the meat mixture and as a glaze on top. It brings tangy sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the meatloaf.
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami to the meatloaf, complementing the beef and bringing everything together.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory depth of flavor to the meatloaf. It works in the background to make the meatloaf taste irresistible without being overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial to bring out the natural flavors in the meatloaf. Don’t skip this step—it helps balance the taste of the ingredients.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean or a mix of lean and fatty for best results)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (preferably plain)
- 1 Egg
- 1/2 Onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Ketchup (plus extra for glazing)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until fully combined, making sure the breadcrumbs are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly greased surface. Shape it into a loaf shape that fits into your air fryer basket. Make sure it’s evenly formed so it cooks evenly.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring it’s hot enough for the meatloaf to cook through and get that golden crust.
Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf
Place the shaped meatloaf into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Check halfway through to ensure it’s not over-browning.
Step 5: Glaze the Meatloaf
Once the meatloaf is almost done, remove it from the air fryer. Brush the top with a thin layer of ketchup to create a beautiful glaze. Return it to the air fryer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the perfect copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the meat. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so mix just until everything is combined.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. The goal is 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to get creative with the glaze. If you want a spicier kick, try adding a bit of hot sauce or BBQ sauce to the ketchup.
- Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier without losing any juices.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, as poultry tends to be milder in flavor.
How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
The milk and breadcrumbs help keep the meatloaf moist, but it’s important not to overcook it. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a thermometer to ensure it’s cooked just right.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf before cooking by shaping it and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to cook, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and follow the instructions above.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its juiciness.