Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Recipe)

Description

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe brings the classic Southern comfort food straight to your kitchen. Made with tender ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. It tastes just like the famous restaurant version and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese.

 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 lbs ground beef

  • 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped

  • 2 eggs

  • ½ cup whole milk

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but authentic to Cracker Barrel style)

For the Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2

In a skillet, lightly sauté the onions and bell peppers in a little butter or oil for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl combine:

  • ground beef

  • crushed Ritz crackers

  • eggs

  • milk

  • sautéed vegetables

  • salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder

  • shredded cheese

Mix gently until just combined.

Step 4

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish or loaf pan.

Step 5

In a small bowl mix together:

  • ketchup

  • brown sugar

  • mustard

  • Worcestershire sauce

Spread half of the glaze on top of the meatloaf.

Step 6

Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7

Remove from oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, then bake another 15–20 minutes.

Step 8

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Servings

6–8 servings

 Nutritional Information (Approx Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Fat: 26 g

  • Carbohydrates: 15 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sodium: 650 mg

Tips

✔ Do not overmix the meat or it may become dense.
✔ Using Ritz crackers makes the meatloaf softer and richer.
✔ Let the meatloaf rest before cutting so it stays juicy.
✔ Add a little BBQ sauce to the glaze for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days.

  • Meatloaf freezes well for up to 3 months.

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

 Benefits

✅ High in protein
✅ Comforting and filling family meal
✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Great for meal prep and leftovers

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on LOW for 6 hours.

Q: Why use crackers instead of breadcrumbs?
Crackers add extra flavor and make the meatloaf more tender.

Q: What sides go best with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread.

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