Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is a beloved comfort food classic—hearty, flavorful, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This homestyle dish combines ground beef with diced onions and green bell peppers for a savory base, while crushed crackers add texture and richness. The ketchup glaze on top gives it that signature finish, making each slice irresistibly moist and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this meatloaf delivers warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and moisture)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or saltines)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for mixing into the meatloaf)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you prefer a free-form loaf.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onions, and green bell peppers.
- Add the crushed crackers, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup ketchup.
- Using clean hands or a spatula, gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
- Smooth the top and press gently to compact the loaf slightly.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- After 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.
- Serve warm with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.
🌟 Tips & Variations:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Add cheese: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.
- Freeze leftovers: Meatloaf freezes well—wrap slices individually for easy reheating.
This Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf is all about comfort and simplicity, yet it delivers big on flavor. Let me know if you’d like a vegetarian version or a twist with turkey or chicken!