Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – Classic Comfort Food
Introduction
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a true comfort food classic. Juicy ground beef, tender vegetables, and buttery Ritz crackers come together to create a moist, flavorful loaf. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like home. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf is guaranteed to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant‑style at home: Inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel dish.
Moist & flavorful: Ritz crackers and milk keep the loaf tender.
Family‑friendly: A hearty meal everyone will enjoy.
Perfect leftovers: Makes delicious sandwiches the next day.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
1 ½ lbs ground beef
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped green bell pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
½ cup milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Topping
¾ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
Step 2: Mix Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, eggs, Ritz crackers, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape & Place
Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Shape into a loaf.
Step 4: Make Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread evenly over meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes, until fully cooked through (internal temp 160°F).
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Remove from oven. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
Don’t overmix: Keeps meatloaf tender.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Extra flavor: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Variations
Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix shredded cheddar into the beef.
BBQ Twist: Swap ketchup glaze for barbecue sauce.
Turkey Version: Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Veggie Boost: Add grated carrots or zucchini.
Serving Ideas
Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic dinner.
Serve with green beans or roasted vegetables.
Make meatloaf sandwiches with leftovers.
Add a side salad for freshness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bread crumbs instead of Ritz crackers?
Yes, but Ritz adds buttery flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a larger pan or bake two loaves.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Final Thoughts
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet glaze that makes it irresistible. It’s a timeless recipe that brings comfort to the table and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.