Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty slice of meatloaf fresh out of the oven. This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe captures the homey goodness of the beloved restaurant dish, bringing its tender texture, savory flavor, and slightly sweet glaze right into your kitchen.

I first discovered this recipe during a family trip to Cracker Barrel, where one bite of their signature meatloaf had me hooked. After some trial and error, I’ve perfected this copycat version, and now, it’s a family-favorite that graces our dinner table regularly.

Let’s dive in and recreate this classic dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You'll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

First, it’s the ultimate comfort food. With its juicy, tender texture and perfectly balanced flavors, every bite feels like a warm hug.

It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced skills—just a few basic ingredients and simple steps.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using common pantry staples like breadcrumbs and ketchup, you can whip up a wholesome meal for your family without breaking the bank.

Finally, the glaze is simply irresistible. That sweet, tangy topping caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding the perfect finishing touch.

Ready to get started? Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, all of which work together to create an unforgettable dish.

• Ground beef: Use a blend of 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can make the meatloaf dry, while fattier blends might make it greasy.
• Crushed Ritz crackers: These add a buttery richness and help hold the meatloaf together. You can substitute breadcrumbs, but Ritz crackers give that signature Cracker Barrel taste.
• Onion: Finely diced yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Eggs: Acting as a binder, large eggs ensure the meatloaf holds its shape while remaining tender.
• Milk: Adding a bit of whole milk keeps the meatloaf moist and soft.
• Ketchup: This ingredient does double duty, lending tanginess to the meat mixture and forming the base of the glaze.
• Brown sugar: Used in the glaze, light brown sugar creates a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory meat.

Equipment You’ll Need

• A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• A loaf pan for shaping and baking the meatloaf
• A small bowl for mixing the glaze

How to Make This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Making this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion, eggs, milk, and ½ cup of ketchup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so aim for just combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes to let the meatloaf start setting before adding the glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

While the meatloaf bakes, mix the remaining ketchup with brown sugar in a small bowl. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, then set aside.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps it hold its shape and allows the juices to redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Options

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

Reheat slices in the microwave for a quick lunch or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes.

• Turkey Meatloaf: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option. Adjust the cooking time as needed since turkey cooks faster.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
• BBQ Glaze: Replace the ketchup glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
• Cheese Lover’s Version: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients to make this recipe your own!

With its rich flavors, moist texture, and irresistible glaze, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a surefire hit. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving comfort food, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for the ultimate down-home meal.

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