Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – Don’t LOSE This Recipe 🍽️✨
If you’ve ever sat down at Cracker Barrel and ordered their famous meatloaf, you already know why people rave about it. It’s tender, juicy, slightly sweet, and covered in that irresistible tangy glaze that feels like pure comfort on a plate. This Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf recipe brings all those cozy, homestyle flavors right into your own kitchen—and trust me, once you make it, you’ll never want to misplace this recipe.
This is the kind of meal that fills the house with memories. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, busy weeknights, or anytime you’re craving classic Southern comfort food. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Why This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe Is So Popular
Moist and tender texture (never dry!)
Sweet and tangy glaze just like the restaurant version
Simple pantry ingredients
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
Tastes even better the next day 😍
This recipe has that old-fashioned, down-home flavor that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen, where nothing fancy was needed—just good food made with love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 works best)
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or buttery crackers)
½ cup milk
½ cup finely chopped onion
½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
For the Signature Glaze:
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp yellow mustard
How to Make Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, eggs, onion, bell pepper, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix gently—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Glaze
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan and gently shape it into a loaf.
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Step 5: Finish Baking
Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it stay juicy and hold together beautifully.
Pro Tips for the BEST Meatloaf
Use crackers instead of breadcrumbs for that authentic Cracker Barrel flavor
Don’t skip the milk – it keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist
Let it rest before slicing to avoid crumbling
Add a pinch of smoked paprika if you want a subtle smoky note
Double the recipe—leftovers make amazing sandwiches!
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This meatloaf shines with classic sides:
Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy
Buttery green beans
Fried apples 🍎
Cornbread or biscuits
Mac and cheese
It’s a full comfort-food experience that never disappoints.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave with a little extra glaze on top
Final Thoughts
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf copycat recipe is one of those dishes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with that nostalgic, homestyle flavor we all crave. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for your family, this recipe is a keeper.
👉 Save it. Pin it. Share it. And whatever you do—don’t lose this recipe.
Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table ❤️
