Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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If you love that homestyle, tender, slightly sweet meatloaf from Cracker Barrel, this copycat recipe brings those cozy country flavors straight to your kitchen. It’s juicy, flavorful, and topped with that signature sweet ketchup glaze!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • ½ cup onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup

For the Sweet Glaze:

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • Extra ketchup (about ½ cup for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf
    In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Ground beef
  • Diced onion
  • Diced green bell pepper
  • Crushed Ritz crackers
  • Eggs
  • Black pepper
  • Salt
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup Mix gently until just combined. Don’t overmix — that keeps your meatloaf tender.
  1. Shape the Loaf
    Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your prepared pan.
  2. Prepare the Glaze
    In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Mustard
  • Enough ketchup to create a spreadable glaze
  1. Top the Meatloaf
    Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, then spoon the brown sugar glaze evenly over it.
  2. Bake
    Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  3. Rest Before Slicing
    Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Mac and cheese
  • Green beans
  • Buttery cornbread

Tips for the Best Texture

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Finely dice the vegetables so they blend seamlessly.
  • If your mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of extra crushed crackers.

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