Craving the comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf? This copycat recipe brings the beloved dish to your kitchen, capturing its rich flavors and tender texture. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this meatloaf combines savory beef, sharp cheddar, and a sweet glaze for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
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1 1/2 sleeves (about 45) Ritz crackers, crushed
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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3 large eggs
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
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3/4 cup ketchup
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 teaspoon yellow mustar
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
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Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
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Shape the Meatloaf:
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Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased loaf pan.
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Shape into a loaf approximately 9×5 inches.
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Bake:
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Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Glaze:
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While the meatloaf is baking, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
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Apply the Glaze:
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After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top.
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Continue Baking:
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Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest and Serve:
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices.
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Tips for Success
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Use Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers add a unique flavor and help bind the meatloaf together.
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Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the savory profile of the meatloaf.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the ingredients too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine just until incorporated.
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Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf with classic sides for a complete meal:
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Mashed potatoes
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Steamed green beans
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Buttered corn
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Macaroni and cheese
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Buttermilk biscuits
These sides complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf, creating a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: Approximately 420
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 15g
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Fat: 28g
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Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Recreating Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf at home is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting classic. With its savory beef, cheesy richness, and sweet glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with traditional sides for a meal that brings the warmth of Southern hospitality to your table.
The History Behind Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf
Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf has become a symbol of Southern homestyle cooking, often ordered by loyal customers who crave comfort and tradition. What makes it stand out is the use of Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs, and the addition of sharp cheddar cheese, which gives it a deeper flavor and moist texture.
It’s not just a menu item—it’s a nostalgic memory for many who grew up stopping at Cracker Barrel on road trips or enjoying Sunday meals with family.
Why This Copycat Recipe Works
This recipe captures the spirit of the original Cracker Barrel version because:
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It uses crushed buttery crackers for a rich, savory base.
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The mix of cheese and vegetables ensures moisture and flavor in every bite.
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The sweet, tangy ketchup glaze caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
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It’s simple, classic, and uses ingredients that are easy to find.
The texture is moist, not crumbly. The flavor is balanced—not too sweet, not too salty. Just right.
Time-Saving Tips
If you’re short on time during the week, you can make this recipe even easier:
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Chop vegetables in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
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Mix and shape the loaf ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
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Bake once, slice and portion, and reheat throughout the week.
Making meatloaf once can give you multiple meals, saving you time and stress.
Making It for Special Occasions
This recipe is homey enough for everyday meals but also feels special when served for:
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Sunday family dinners
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Holiday comfort sides (like Thanksgiving or Christmas alternatives)
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Meal trains for loved ones who need a warm, filling dish
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Potlucks or gatherings, especially when sliced and plated with traditional sides
It’s versatile, heartwarming, and always appreciated—just the way comfort food should be.
Flavor Variations
To give your Cracker Barrel meatloaf a twist without losing its essence, try one of these ideas:
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Add smoky paprika or cumin for extra depth.
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Mix in BBQ sauce with the glaze for a smoky-sweet finish.
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Use white cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of sharp cheddar.
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Add a handful of fresh parsley or thyme for a herbal note.
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For a slight crunch, fold in finely chopped celery or carrots.
Every variation keeps the soul of the recipe intact while adding your personal touch.
Making It Kid-Friendly
Cracker Barrel meatloaf is naturally appealing to kids thanks to its soft texture and slightly sweet glaze. But if you’re cooking for picky eaters, here are a few ideas to make it even more child-approved:
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Mini Meatloaves: Use a muffin tin to create individual portions. These cook faster and are fun-sized for little hands.
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Hide More Veggies: Grate in zucchini or carrots—they’ll disappear into the mix unnoticed but add extra nutrition.
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Serve with Fun Sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or cheesy mac for that familiar “comfort plate.”
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Add a Cheesy Center: Tuck a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the middle of each meatloaf muffin for a melty surprise.
These little changes can turn a regular dinner into a meal your kids ask for again and again.
How to Tell When It’s Done
A well-cooked meatloaf is moist, fully set, and safe to eat. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked through:
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Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer. The center of the loaf should reach 160°F (71°C).
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Appearance: The edges should be browned, and the glaze on top should be slightly caramelized.
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Texture: It should be firm but not dry. When sliced, it should hold together well without crumbling.
Resist the urge to overbake—it’s the quickest way to dry out your loaf.
Meatloaf as a Meal Prep Hero
This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf isn’t just delicious fresh out of the oven—it’s a fantastic meal prep solution:
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Lunches: Slice and pack with a small container of glaze and a side salad or rice.
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Dinners: Reheat and serve with roasted veggies or inside a sandwich bun.
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Freezer-Friendly: Freeze whole loaves before baking or cooked slices for future meals.
It’s a dish that scales well, freezes well, and reheats like a dream—perfect for busy families or individuals cooking ahead.
A Dish That Brings People Together
There’s something timeless about meatloaf—it speaks of home, tradition, and care. The Cracker Barrel version captures all of that, and this copycat recipe lets you bring those feelings to your own kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for your kids, hosting a comforting dinner for friends, or simply feeding yourself with something nostalgic, this dish does more than fill the stomach—it fills the heart.