Introduction
This Cracker Barrel–inspired meatloaf is everything comfort food should be: tender, juicy, and packed with classic homestyle flavor. The secret is the buttery Ritz crackers, which keep the meatloaf moist and give it that signature restaurant-style texture. It’s perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or feeding a crowd, and it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
1 1/2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 48 crackers)
3 large eggs
3/4 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Glaze
3/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a large loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Add the crushed Ritz crackers and let them soak for 1–2 minutes so they soften.
Add the ground beef, diced onion, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix gently with your hands just until combined. Do not overmix or the meatloaf will be dense.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for another 20–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Method Tips
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
Ritz crackers can be substituted with saltines, but Ritz gives the best flavor.
For extra moisture, you can add 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the meat mixture.
History
Cracker Barrel is famous for its Southern comfort food, and meatloaf has long been a staple of American home cooking. Using crackers instead of breadcrumbs became popular during the early 20th century as an easy and flavorful way to stretch meat and keep dishes tender.
Benefits
High in protein from beef and eggs
Comforting, filling, and family-friendly
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Easy ingredients you likely already have
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes and brown gravy
Pair with green beans or mac and cheese
Excellent as a leftover meatloaf sandwich the next day
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is a tried-and-true classic that never disappoints. Moist, flavorful, and simple to make, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Definitely one to save and pass on to family and friends.