Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Here’s a cozy, classic Cracker Barrel-style Meatloaf recipe — packed with flavor, topped with a sweet glaze, and full of that Southern comfort goodness. It’s tender, hearty, and tastes just like the one from the restaurant!

🍖 Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Recipe)

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

🥄 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 is best)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• ½ green bell pepper, finely diced (optional)

• 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers), crushed

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp yellow mustard (or a dash of Dijon)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5″ loaf pan or a baking dish.

2. Make the meatloaf mixture:
   In a large bowl, mix ground beef, crackers, eggs, onion, bell pepper, cheese, milk, Worcestershire, and seasonings until well combined. Don’t overmix.

3. Shape and bake:
   Form into a loaf and place in the pan. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

4. Make the glaze:
   Stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.

5. Add glaze and finish baking:
   Spread glaze over the meatloaf and return to oven for another 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest before slicing:
   Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting — this helps it hold together.

✅ Tips & Variations

• Make it ahead: Prepare and shape the meatloaf the night before, then bake the next day.

• Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

• No Ritz? Use crushed saltines or plain breadcrumbs instead.