If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their homestyle cooking is second to none. One of their most beloved menu items is the Cracker Barrel meatloaf—a moist, savory, and slightly sweet dish topped with a delicious glaze.
This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is an easy copycat version you can make at home. With classic ingredients like ground beef, onions, Ritz crackers, and a tangy tomato glaze, it brings the taste of Southern comfort right to your dinner table. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make the perfect Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or saltine crackers)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Prepare the meatloaf mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, milk, eggs, shredded cheese, ¼ cup ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep it tender. - Shape the loaf.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan or shape it by hand into a loaf on a baking sheet. Smooth the top for even cooking. - Prepare the glaze.
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. - Bake.
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. - Add more glaze and finish baking.
After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). - Rest and serve.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.)
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh breadcrumbs: If you don’t have crackers, use fresh or panko breadcrumbs for a similar texture.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Add vegetables: Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can boost nutrition and moisture.
- Swap the meat: Try using half ground beef and half ground pork for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-free crackers or oats for the Ritz crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe the traditional way—with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread. It also pairs wonderfully with:
- Macaroni and cheese
- Roasted vegetables
- A fresh garden salad
- Biscuits or dinner rolls
For leftovers, use meatloaf slices in sandwiches with a touch of barbecue sauce for a delicious next-day meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cracker Barrel meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely. Wrap the baked or unbaked loaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
3. What type of ground beef works best?
An 80/20 ground beef mix gives the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness without being too greasy.
4. Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
Overmixing or not enough binding ingredients (like eggs or crackers) can cause crumbling. Mix gently and follow the ratios in this recipe.
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe captures everything you love about the restaurant’s classic dish—juicy beef, sweet glaze, and homey flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknights yet comforting enough for Sunday dinner. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to ordinary meatloaf again!
