There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty meatloaf fresh out of the oven. And if you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their meatloaf is legendary—a savory, tender, and flavorful slice of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking to bring that nostalgic taste home or need the perfect entrée for a weeknight dinner, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe delivers every time.

This dish is perfect for cozy Sunday suppers, cool-weather family gatherings, or simply when you want a wholesome homemade meal with familiar flavors. Inspired by the traditional version served in Cracker Barrel restaurants, this recipe uses simple pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps that anyone can master. It’s a slice of Americana at its best—and once you try it, it just might become a staple in your own home.

The History Behind Cracker Barrel’s Famous Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has been serving comfort food across America since 1969. Known for its country charm and down-home recipes, it’s a go-to spot for travelers and families seeking hearty Southern cuisine. Among the standouts on the menu, the meatloaf has built a cult following—thanks to its moist texture, sweet glaze, and blend of classic ingredients.

Unlike many dry or bland versions of meatloaf, Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is known for its balance of flavor and texture, combining ground beef with onions, bell peppers, Ritz crackers, eggs, and milk for a tender interior and a sweet tomato glaze on top. It’s this tried-and-true combination that makes it a must-try for anyone craving true comfort food.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and moisture)

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or about 24 crackers)

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper

• 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

These ingredients come together to form a deliciously moist meatloaf with just the right amount of seasoning and a sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process to make your Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf come out perfect every single time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you prefer a free-form meatloaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Ground beef

• Crushed Ritz crackers

• Chopped onion

• Chopped bell pepper

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Eggs

• Milk

• Salt and pepper

Use your hands or a spoon to mix just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can lead to a denser loaf.

Step 3: Form the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press it together gently—just enough to hold its shape.

Step 4: Bake the First Round

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes uncovered. This first bake firms up the loaf before the glaze is added.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the meatloaf is baking, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. This glaze adds a rich, sweet-tangy flavor to the top of the loaf.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish Baking

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

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once the meatloaf is done, allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful slice every time.

Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

To make your homemade meatloaf truly exceptional, keep these expert tips in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix

Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough instead of tender.

2. Use a Loaf Pan or Free-Form?

While a loaf pan creates a uniform shape, a free-form loaf on a baking sheet allows more surface area for browning and gives you a more rustic look.

3. Choose the Right Beef

An 80/20 ground beef blend provides the ideal balance of fat and lean meat, resulting in juicy meatloaf without excessive grease.

4. Customize the Glaze

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of hot sauce, or even a bit of honey to customize your glaze. You can also use BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor profile.

5. Add More Vegetables

Feel free to add grated carrots, mushrooms, or celery to boost the nutritional content and add complexity to the flavor.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This classic dish pairs beautifully with a variety of Southern sides. For the full Cracker Barrel experience, consider serving your meatloaf with:

• Mashed potatoes with brown gravy

• Macaroni and cheese

• Green beans or turnip greens

• Buttered corn

• Biscuits or cornbread

• Fried apples

A little gravy or extra glaze on the side never hurts, either.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This meatloaf stores and reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Storing Leftovers:

Let the meatloaf cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes), or microwave slices in 30-second intervals. Add a little extra glaze or ketchup to prevent drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe will become a favorite in your household:

• Simple ingredients – No hard-to-find components

• Nostalgic flavor – Just like dining at your favorite roadside stop

• Family-friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike

• Budget-friendly – Feeds a crowd without breaking the bank

• Customizable – Easy to tweak based on your preferences

It’s also a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, but expect a slightly different flavor and texture. Turkey and chicken are leaner, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to keep the loaf moist.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or oats, and ensure your ketchup and mustard are gluten-free certified.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you may need to use two loaf pans or shape two loaves on a large baking sheet. Adjust the baking time accordingly and check the internal temperature for doneness.

Is it okay to use a food processor for the veggies?

Yes, chopping the onion and bell pepper in a food processor is a great time-saver and ensures even distribution throughout the meatloaf.

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