Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

 

Bring home the cozy, homestyle flavor of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf! Tender, juicy, and topped with a sweet tangy glaze, this easy recipe tastes just like the restaurant favorite — perfect for Sunday dinners or comforting weeknight meals.

Kitchen Items

• Large mixing bowl

• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)

• Small saucepan

• Baking sheet (optional for overflow)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Aluminum foil

---

Ingredients

1. 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)

2. 1 small onion, finely chopped

3. ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped

4. 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)

5. ½ cup milk

6. 2 eggs, beaten

7. 1 teaspoon salt

8. ½ teaspoon black pepper

9. 1 teaspoon garlic powder

10. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

11. 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Glaze:
12. ½ cup ketchup
13. ¼ cup brown sugar
14. 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

---

Instructions

⇆

1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crackers, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined — don’t overmix.

3. Add the cheese: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the mixture.

4. Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it evenly. You can also shape it by hand and place it on a lined baking sheet if you prefer crispier edges.

5. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan (or bowl), mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until smooth.

6. Add the first layer: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the uncooked meatloaf.

7. Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, spread the remaining glaze on top, and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Rest and slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist, tender result.

---

Tips or Serving Suggestions

• For extra flavor, sauté the onion and bell pepper before adding them to the mix.

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a cheese blend for a little kick.

• Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a buttery biscuit for a true Cracker Barrel-style meal.

• Leftovers make great sandwiches — just reheat a slice and layer it between toasted bread with a bit of ketchup or BBQ sauce