Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a standout comfort food classic. With its perfectly seasoned, tender texture and a slightly sweet, tangy glaze, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite. Now you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen!
This homemade version stays true to the flavors you love, combining ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings for a meatloaf that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Whether for Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe will bring comfort to your table let’s cooking our Cracker Barrel Meatloaf.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 1 small green bell pepper (finely diced)
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, eggs, crushed crackers, milk, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Using clean hands or a spatula, mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
- After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the glaze evenly over the top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.
Tips
- Cracker Substitute: If you don’t have Ritz crackers, plain breadcrumbs or crushed saltines work just as well.
- Vegetable Variations: Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra moisture and a sneaky veggie boost.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the meatloaf ingredients until just combined to keep it tender and juicy.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap cooked, cooled meatloaf in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat slices in the microwave, or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.
- Cheesy Center: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the middle of the loaf for a gooey surprise.
- BBQ Twist: Replace the glaze with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
FAQ
Can I use a different pan?
Yes! If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf on a baking sheet or use a muffin tin for individual portions.
How do I know the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What sides pair well with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or mac and cheese are classic pairings for this hearty dish.
