Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a classic meatloaf—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf is the ultimate example of this cozy dish done right: juicy ground beef blended with savory veggies and spices, baked to perfection, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer, and you’ll want to make it again and again.

This recipe captures the magic of Cracker Barrel’s beloved meatloaf, bringing that restaurant-quality flavor straight into your own kitchen. Picture the aroma of onions, bell peppers, and seasoned beef mingling with the rich scent of a sweet glaze as it bakes. That moment when you slice into it and the glaze glistens on top? Pure satisfaction.

Recipe Origin

This recipe is inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel meatloaf, known for its tender texture, savory seasoning, and signature sweet glaze. It’s a staple comfort food in American cuisine, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for glaze)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Why You’ll Love Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This isn’t just meatloaf—it’s a warm, flavorful experience that’s satisfying in every bite. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.

Budget-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, proving comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive.

Quick and Easy: Simple steps make it approachable even for beginner cooks. Mix, shape, glaze, and bake—done!

Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or even chopped bacon to make it your own. Adjust the glaze sweetness to taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Savory, slightly sweet, and tender, this meatloaf is loved by kids and adults alike. It’s a dish that always disappears from the table.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overmix: Combine ingredients gently to avoid a dense meatloaf.
• Use a mix of seasonings: Onion, bell pepper, and Worcestershire sauce give layers of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow meatloaf to rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
• Caramelize the glaze: Brush the glaze generously and bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to get that beautiful caramelized finish.

Ingredients in Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Here’s the magic behind this comforting classic:

Ground Chuck: The base of the meatloaf, providing rich flavor and the perfect tender texture.

Eggs: Help bind the meatloaf together, keeping it moist and cohesive.

Ritz Crackers: Crushed crackers act as a binder and add a subtle buttery flavor.

Milk: Keeps the meat mixture moist and tender.

White Onion: Finely chopped for sweet, savory flavor that blends beautifully with the meat.

Green Bell Pepper: Adds a slight crunch and subtle vegetal freshness to the meatloaf.

Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.

Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance the flavors of the meat and vegetables without overpowering them.

Glaze: A sweet and tangy combination of ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce that forms a delicious caramelized topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this classic, flavorful meatloaf:

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating ensures even cooking and a tender loaf.

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chuck, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, milk, finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper, drained diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and shape it into a neat loaf.

Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Glaze the Meatloaf: Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest to brush on later.

Bake to Perfection: Cover the loaf with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, brush with remaining glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This step locks in juices and makes serving easier.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice thick portions and serve warm. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for the ultimate comfort meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~350 (approximate)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Enhance the dining experience with these simple sides:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory meatloaf perfectly.

Vegetable Sides: Green beans, carrots, or roasted broccoli balance the richness of the meat.

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden or Caesar salad adds freshness and color.

As a Sandwich: Leftover slices make amazing meatloaf sandwiches with melted cheese and fresh bread.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Mix meatloaf ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven.
• Freeze for Later: Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Variations to Try

• Add cooked bacon or sausage to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
• Include finely chopped mushrooms for added moisture and umami.
• Spice it up with smoked paprika, cayenne, or chili powder.
• Substitute breadcrumbs for Ritz crackers if preferred.

Additional Tips

• Binding: Don’t skip eggs or crackers—they keep the meatloaf from falling apart.
• Glaze: Brush generously and bake uncovered at the end for that perfect caramelized finish.
• Cheese: Top with shredded cheddar for a cheesy variation.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a colorful touch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork works, though cooking times may vary.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain flavor.

Q4: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A4: Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months.

Q5: Can I make it gluten-free?
A5: Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz for a safe alternative.

Q6: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
A6: Don’t overmix, and bake with foil for part of the cooking time to lock in moisture.

Q7: Can I make individual meatloaf portions?
A7: Yes! Shape the mixture into mini loaves or muffins for faster cooking.

Q8: Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
A8: Absolutely. Add more brown sugar for a sweeter glaze or reduce for a tangier finish.

Q9: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes, but skip the glaze until the last 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Q10: What sides pair best with this meatloaf?
A10: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salad, and crusty bread all complement this hearty dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and topped with a sweet, caramelized glaze that elevates it to restaurant-quality perfection. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether for a weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or a cozy solo meal, this meatloaf is sure to impress. Once you try it, it will become a go-to in your kitchen for years to come—comfort food at its very best.

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