Meatloaf Like Cracker Barrel’s

Introduction

Craving the warm, homestyle flavor of Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf? This recipe captures all the savory
goodness—moist, tender, perfectly seasoned, and topped with a sweet tangy glaze. It’s classic comfort food
that feels like a cozy family dinner, and best of all, it’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive
enough for guests.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup (mixed into the meatloaf)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan or baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion, bell pepper, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup ketchup. Mix gently until fully combined.
3. Shape into a loaf in the pan or on a baking sheet for crispier edges.
4. Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and optional Worcestershire.
5. Spread half the glaze over the loaf and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Brush the remaining glaze on top and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Description

This Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is tender, moist, and rich in flavor thanks to crushed buttery crackers,
fresh onion and bell pepper, and a perfectly balanced ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
The result is a sliceable, juicy loaf with a familiar down-home flavor that feels nostalgic and satisfying.

Tips

• Do not overmix the meat; it keeps the texture soft instead of dense.
• Use Ritz crackers for the most authentic Cracker Barrel-like flavor.
• Bake on a sheet pan if you prefer crispier edges.
• Add 1/2 cup grated cheddar for a richer taste.
• Meatloaf freezes well—bake, cool, slice, and freeze for easy meals later.

Correction Notes

• Ensure onions and bell peppers are finely diced to help the loaf hold together.
• If the mixture feels too wet, add 1/4 cup more crushed crackers.
• If it feels too dry, add 2–3 tablespoons more milk.

Enjoy

Serve warm slices of your homemade Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits
for a classic, comforting meal everyone will love.