Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Nutrition Facts

Cracker Barrel's meatloaf is a classic comfort food favorite, but if you're watching your nutrition, you might be wondering about the nutritional information. We've delved into the details to provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of this popular dish.

Before we dive into the specifics, let's address the elephant in the room. Meatloaf, by its nature, is a calorie-dense dish due to its primary ingredients: ground meat and breadcrumbs. However, understanding the nutritional profile can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and pairings.

Nutritional Breakdown of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel's meatloaf is typically served in a 6 oz portion, which is a common serving size for meat dishes. Here's a detailed look at the nutritional information per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per 6 oz serving
Calories	390
Total Fat	24g (37% DV)
Saturated Fat	10g (50% DV)
Cholesterol	125mg (42% DV)
Sodium	1230mg (51% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	17g (6% DV)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4% DV)
Sugars	5g
Protein	31g (62% DV)
Vitamin A	2% DV
Vitamin C	2% DV
Calcium	4% DV
Iron	15% DV

Calories and Macronutrients

A 6 oz serving of Cracker Barrel meatloaf contains 390 calories, with the majority coming from fat (24g) and protein (31g). The total carbohydrate content is 17g, with 1g of dietary fiber and 5g of sugars.

In terms of daily value (DV) based on a 2,000 calorie diet, this serving provides 37% DV for total fat, 62% DV for protein, and 6% DV for total carbohydrates. It's important to note that the DV for fat is quite high, so portion control is key.

Micronutrients and Minerals

The meatloaf provides a modest amount of vitamins and minerals. It's notable for its iron content, providing 15% DV, which is important for blood health. However, it's relatively low in vitamins A and C, providing only 2% DV each.

The sodium content is also high, with 1230mg per serving (51% DV). This is due to the added salt and the use of processed meats. If you're watching your sodium intake, you might want to consider this when planning your meals.

Comparing Cracker Barrel Meatloaf to Other Options

To put the nutritional information into perspective, let's compare Cracker Barrel's meatloaf to a homemade version and a vegetarian alternative.

Homemade Meatloaf

Making meatloaf at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your nutritional needs. A homemade meatloaf using lean ground turkey, whole grain breadcrumbs, and fewer added fats can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content.

For example, a 6 oz serving of a leaner, homemade meatloaf might contain around 250 calories, 12g of fat, and 25g of protein, with a lower sodium content.

Vegetarian Alternatives

For those looking to reduce their meat intake, there are several vegetarian alternatives that can provide a similar comfort food experience. Lentil loaf, for instance, is a popular option that's lower in calories and fat, and higher in fiber and other nutrients.

A 6 oz serving of lentil loaf might contain around 200 calories, 3g of fat, 15g of protein, and 10g of fiber, making it a more nutrient-dense option.

In conclusion, understanding the nutritional information of Cracker Barrel's meatloaf can help you make informed decisions about your meal choices. While it's a delicious comfort food, it's important to be mindful of the calorie and fat content, as well as the high sodium levels. Consider pairing it with nutrient-dense sides like steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance out your meal. Enjoy your meal at Cracker Barrel, and remember, moderation is key!