Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: Low Carb & Delicious

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf : Cracker Barrel is famous for its hearty, down-home comfort food, and one of its most beloved dishes is the meatloaf. The combination of savory ground beef, spices, and a tangy glaze makes Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf an iconic dish. However, if you’re watching your carb intake or following a keto diet, you might be wondering, “How many carbs are in Cracker Barrel meatloaf?”

In this article, we’ll explore the carb content of Cracker Barrel meatloaf, provide a healthier, low-carb version of the recipe, and give you tips on how to enjoy this delicious meal while sticking to your dietary goals.

What Are the Carbs in Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Before we dive into a low-carb version of the recipe, let’s first examine the traditional Cracker Barrel meatloaf and its carb content.

Traditional Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Carbs

Cracker Barrel meatloaf, while delicious, is not necessarily carb-friendly if you are following a keto or low-carb diet. A typical serving of meatloaf at Cracker Barrel contains around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, depending on portion size and the exact ingredients used.

This carb count is largely attributed to the breadcrumbs or other fillers used in the meat mixture. If you’re aiming for a low-carb or keto-friendly lifestyle, these breadcrumbs can easily add up, making the dish less suitable for your dietary needs.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Low Carb

Now, let’s move to the good news! You can recreate this classic comfort food while reducing the carb content significantly. The key to a low-carb Cracker Barrel meatloaf lies in swapping out high-carb ingredients, such as breadcrumbs, with alternatives that are lower in carbohydrates.

Here’s a recipe for a low-carb Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf that you’ll love, whether you’re on a keto diet or just trying to reduce carbs.

Ingredients for Low Carb Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef (you can use lean beef or a blend with some fat for flavor)
• 1/4 cup almond flour (a great substitute for breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional for flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup (or make your own with tomato paste and stevia)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the loaf pan by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
3. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, almond flour, parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and basil. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
4. Form the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
5. Top with ketchup glaze: Spread a thin layer of sugar-free ketchup on top of the meatloaf for that classic glaze.
6. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 160°F is recommended).
7. Let it rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Information for Low-Carb Meatloaf

This low-carb meatloaf version contains only 5-7 grams of carbs per serving, depending on portion size. This makes it a perfect option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. The substitution of almond flour and the use of sugar-free ketchup drastically lowers the carb content while maintaining the flavor and texture that make meatloaf such a comfort food classic.

Tips for Reducing Carbs in Meatloaf

If you want to further reduce the carbs or adjust the recipe to your preferences, here are some additional tips:

1. Substitute ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the meatloaf.
2. Omit the onions: While onions add great flavor, they do contain carbs. If you need to cut carbs even more, try omitting the onions or using a small amount of onion powder for flavor.
3. Use homemade breadcrumbs: If you don’t want to use almond flour, you can make your own low-carb breadcrumbs using leftover low-carb bread. Just dry it out and crush it into crumbs.

Pairing Low-Carb Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with Side Dishes

When serving your low-carb meatloaf, it’s essential to pair it with keto-friendly or low-carb side dishes. Here are some options:

• Cauliflower mash: A creamy and delicious substitute for mashed potatoes.
• Zucchini noodles: A great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts make excellent side dishes with a low-carb meal.

Can I Freeze Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze Cracker Barrel meatloaf! It’s a great option for meal prep. After cooking the meatloaf, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel meatloaf can be enjoyed on a low-carb or keto diet with the right modifications. By replacing breadcrumbs with almond flour and using sugar-free ketchup, you can enjoy a tasty and guilt-free version of this classic dish. This recipe offers only 5-7 grams of carbs per serving, making it perfect for anyone looking to cut back on carbohydrates while still indulging in a delicious home-cooked meal.

External Linking Resources:

• For more details on the carb content of common foods, check out Google Nutrition Information to learn more about low-carb alternatives.
• For tips on other keto-friendly recipes, visit KetoDiet Blog.

Internal Linking:

For more keto-friendly and low-carb recipes, check out other articles on Recipesify.