🍽️ Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf
Don’t LOSE This Recipe — It’s a Comfort-Food Classic Everyone Loves!
If you’ve ever sat down at Cracker Barrel and thought, “Why does their meatloaf taste so much better than mine?” — this post is for you. This Cracker Barrel–inspired meatloaf is tender, juicy, perfectly seasoned, and topped with that sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes just right in the oven. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people to the table fast and has them asking for seconds (and the recipe!) 😋
🥩 Why This Meatloaf Is So Good
This isn’t dry or crumbly like some old-school versions. The secret is in the balance:
Crushed Ritz crackers (instead of breadcrumbs) for softness
Cheddar cheese for richness
Milk and eggs for moisture
A sweet-tangy glaze that locks in flavor
It’s classic Southern comfort food at its finest—simple, filling, and incredibly satisfying.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 works best)
¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers
½ cup milk
2 eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup finely diced onion
¼ cup green bell pepper, finely diced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp yellow mustard
👩🍳 How to Make Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, eggs, cheese, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix—this keeps it tender.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then remove and spread the remaining glaze on top.
Return to the oven and bake another 30–40 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing (this keeps it juicy!).
⭐ Pro Tips for Best Results
Use Ritz crackers, not dry breadcrumbs — they make a huge difference
Don’t pack the meat too tightly
Let it rest before slicing
Want extra flavor? Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce
🍽️ What to Serve With It
This meatloaf pairs perfectly with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Green beans or buttered corn
Mac and cheese
Warm biscuits
Basically, it turns any regular night into a home-style diner dinner.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s cozy, reliable, and always a hit with family and guests. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or just craving something hearty and nostalgic—this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf never disappoints.
