Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe (Copycat)

A Comfort Classic Reinvented at Home

Introduction:

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is legendary—moist, tender, savory, and full of Southern charm. This copycat version recreates that homestyle magic right in your own kitchen, using pantry staples and comfort-packed ingredients like Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and ketchup glaze. Whether you’re serving a weeknight family dinner or preparing a cozy meal for a loved one, this meatloaf brings warmth to every bite.

Ingredients:

Meatloaf Base:

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional but recommended for flavor and moisture)
  • 1 1/2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers
  • 4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper

Topping (Glaze):

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment or lightly grease it.
  2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but don’t overmix.
  3. Form the loaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan.
  4. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
  5. Top the loaf: Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
  7. Add more glaze: After 30 minutes, spread the remaining glaze on top and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle and makes slicing easier.

Cooking Methods:

  • Baking is the traditional method that allows for caramelization of the glaze and a tender interior.
  • For a crispier edge, bake it on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan.
  • To make mini meatloaves, portion the mixture into muffin tins and reduce bake time to 25–30 minutes.

History of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store first opened in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee. Since then, it has become a staple of roadside Americana, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty Southern meals. The meatloaf quickly became a customer favorite—its secret? Homestyle ingredients, a rich ketchup glaze, and that comforting blend of savory and slightly sweet.

This copycat recipe brings that experience to your home kitchen, giving you the same classic flavors without needing to hit the highway.

Health Benefits (Yes, even comfort food has some!):

  • Protein-rich from the lean ground beef and eggs, supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • Calcium from the cheddar cheese, which aids in bone health.
  • Lycopene in ketchup and bell peppers is an antioxidant that supports heart health.
  • Onions and peppers provide fiber and vitamin C.

To make it healthier, you can:

  • Use ground turkey or lean ground chicken.
  • Reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat version.
  • Swap Ritz crackers with whole-grain breadcrumbs or oats.
  • Use low-sugar ketchup.

Formation:

This meatloaf forms beautifully thanks to the binding power of eggs, milk, and crushed crackers. The crackers soak up the liquids and hold the meat together while baking. The cheddar melts into the loaf, creating little pockets of flavor.

For the Lovers of Comfort Food:

There’s something nostalgic about meatloaf—it brings back memories of Sunday dinners, family tables, and warm kitchens. If you’re a fan of Cracker Barrel or just crave something hearty and soulful, this dish will make your heart (and your tummy) happy. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese for the full Southern comfort experience.

Nutrition (Approximate per slice – serves 8):

  • Calories: 350–400 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 600–700mg

Conclusion:

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat isn’t just a recipe—it’s a tradition brought home. It’s cheesy, savory, slightly sweet, and irresistibly moist. Whether you’re impressing guests, warming a cold night, or just indulging your cravings, this meatloaf stands tall among comfort classics.

With Love, From One Food Lover to Another:

Food is love—and this meatloaf is a hug on a plate. Share it with someone you adore, freeze the leftovers for a rainy day, or savor it solo with your favorite show. Either way, this recipe promises belly-full satisfaction and a smile with every slice.

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