Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting, homestyle dish packed with rich flavors and a tender texture. Made with seasoned ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sweet, tangy glaze, this meatloaf is a perfect replica of the restaurant favorite. Whether served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that brings warmth to the table.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- Lean Ground Beef – 2 pounds
- Yellow Onion – ½ cup, finely chopped
- Bell Pepper – ½ cup, finely chopped
- Ritz Crackers – 1 cup, crushed
- Eggs – 2
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Whole Milk – ½ cup
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
For the Glaze
- Ketchup – ¾ cup
- Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Yellow Mustard – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add ground beef and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a firm loaf.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
5. Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
6. Apply the Glaze & Finish Baking
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for 30-40 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest & Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cornbread.
Additional Tips
- Use fresh cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Make ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Perfect texture: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain moisture.
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a delicious, nostalgic dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. You can find more details here.