Here’s a classic Cracker Barrel-style Meatloaf recipe — tender, savory, and topped with that signature sweet glaze. It’s a comfort food staple with simple ingredients and homestyle flavor.
🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Meatloaf:
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
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3 large eggs
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¾ cup milk
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
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½ cup finely chopped onion
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½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional, but traditional)
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or grease it well.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Stir in crushed crackers, onion, green pepper, salt, and pepper.
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Add ground beef and shredded cheddar. Mix just until combined — don’t overmix or it will get dense.
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Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan and shape evenly.
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Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
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While baking, make the glaze: whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
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After 30 minutes, remove meatloaf, spread glaze over the top, and return to oven.
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Bake another 30–35 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for the full Cracker Barrel experience!
Tips & Variations
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You can swap Ritz crackers for saltines or panko, but Ritz gives that buttery richness.
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For more moisture, add 1–2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or a splash of BBQ sauce to the meat mix.
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Make it ahead: Assemble the loaf and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Would you like a freezer-friendly version or an individual mini loaf variation?