This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to classic American comfort food, reimagined for your home kitchen. Crafted with tender ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, and a medley of savory seasonings, this homemade meatloaf is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a standout dish perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. Forget long waits at the restaurant – now you can enjoy the authentic taste of Cracker Barrel’s beloved meatloaf right from your own oven, all while impressing your loved ones with your culinary skills.
You can easily save this delightful Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe for later by clicking on the heart icon located on the right-hand side of your screen or directly within the recipe card below. This convenient feature ensures you can quickly access this crowd-pleasing dish whenever you’re ready to whip up a comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
- This Cracker Barrel copycat meatloaf recipe captures the authentic taste of the restaurant’s famous dish, making it a guaranteed hit with your entire family. It’s a well-loved classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table, perfect for creating cherished mealtime memories.
- The beauty of this homemade meatloaf extends beyond the initial meal. Leftovers transform into incredibly tasty sandwiches the next day, making it an excellent option for efficient meal prep throughout the week. You’ll look forward to your lunch almost as much as dinner!
- Experience the unparalleled comfort food sensation that mirrors the rich, buttery flavor profile of Ritz crackers – a signature touch that elevates this meatloaf beyond ordinary. It’s a delightful blend of home-style goodness and restaurant-quality taste, all made accessible in your own kitchen.
One of the most rewarding aspects of mastering copycat recipes, especially one as iconic as this Cracker Barrel meatloaf, is the ability to indulge your restaurant cravings without the added expense or the need to leave your home. It’s a truly satisfying win-win situation, offering both convenience and incredible flavor. This recipe empowers you to enjoy your favorite comfort food whenever the mood strikes, turning an ordinary meal into a special occasion.
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Meatloaf
Note: This section provides an overview of the key ingredients. You will find the precise measurements and detailed instructions conveniently located in the printable recipe card at the very bottom of this page.
Detailed Ingredient Notes
- Eggs: Essential for the perfect meatloaf, eggs serve as a crucial binder. They help to emulsify the fat and liquids within the meat mixture, ensuring all ingredients cohere beautifully and prevent the meatloaf from crumbling once cooked. Without them, your meatloaf would lack structure and might fall apart.
- Onions: For optimal flavor, I highly recommend using yellow or white onions. When finely diced, they caramelize slightly during baking, releasing a sweet and pungent aroma that deeply infuses the meatloaf, adding a foundational layer of savory goodness. Their moisture also contributes to the overall juiciness of the dish.
- Green Peppers: These vibrant vegetables contribute more than just color; finely chopped green bell peppers introduce a subtle crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the beef. They add an extra dimension of taste and texture to each bite.
- Ground Beef: The choice of ground beef is paramount for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. I recommend using lean ground beef with an 85% lean or higher ratio. The fat content is crucial for tenderness and preventing dryness, ensuring your meatloaf remains juicy and succulent without becoming overly greasy.
- Ritz Crackers: These iconic buttery crackers are a secret ingredient that truly sets this Cracker Barrel copycat meatloaf apart. When crushed, they provide a delightful, subtle crunch and an unmatched buttery flavor. Beyond taste, they act as an excellent binder, much like traditional bread crumbs, absorbing moisture and keeping the meatloaf tender and cohesive.
- Cheddar Cheese: Incorporating shredded cheddar cheese into the meatloaf mixture adds a wonderful creaminess and a sharp, tangy flavor. As it melts, the cheese helps to bind the ingredients further and infuses the entire loaf with a delightful, cheesy richness that every bite will savor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are indispensable. They are not just for adding a touch of flavor; they are critical for enhancing and balancing all the other ingredients, drawing out the natural savory notes of the beef and vegetables, and ensuring a well-seasoned and palatable meatloaf.
- Milk: A vital component for achieving a perfectly moist and flavorful meatloaf. Milk hydrates the cracker crumbs and meat, preventing the loaf from becoming dense or dry. For the richest flavor and best texture, I suggest using whole milk, as its fat content contributes significantly to the meatloaf’s succulence.
- Ketchup: Ketchup forms the sweet and tangy base of our signature glaze. Its natural sugars caramelize during baking, creating a glossy, irresistible crust. For a slight variation, you can easily substitute it with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist or tomato sauce for a milder tomato flavor.
- Brown Sugar: This ingredient is essential for adding a deep, molasses-rich sweetness to the glaze, perfectly balancing the tanginess of the ketchup and mustard. Brown sugar helps create that beautiful caramelized finish on top of the meatloaf, making it visually appealing and delicious.
- Yellow Mustard: Yellow mustard is key to the glaze, providing a distinctive tangy and sharp flavor. This zesty note is crucial for cutting through the sweetness of the brown sugar and ketchup, ensuring the glaze is perfectly balanced and adds a vibrant kick to the overall profile of the meatloaf.
Before You Begin: Essential Kitchen Tools
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- Large Mixing Bowl: An generously sized mixing bowl is absolutely essential for this recipe. It allows you to comfortably combine all the meatloaf ingredients without spillage, ensuring you can thoroughly mix everything by hand without overworking the meat, which is key for a tender result.
- Large Rimmed Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is perfect for cooking your meatloaf. The rim prevents any rendered fat from spilling into your oven, keeping it clean, while the flat surface promotes even baking and browning of the meatloaf’s exterior.
- Meat Thermometer: For absolute precision and food safety, a reliable meat thermometer is highly recommended. It takes the guesswork out of determining if your meatloaf is fully cooked, ensuring it reaches the ideal internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is a simple yet effective trick. It prevents the meatloaf from sticking, makes for incredibly easy cleanup, and helps to achieve a nice, even crust on the bottom of the loaf.
- Wire Rack: If you prefer to elevate your meatloaf off the baking sheet, a wire rack placed inside the rimmed pan can be invaluable. This allows air to circulate fully around the meatloaf, resulting in a more uniform texture and preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Note: This section provides a concise overview of the cooking process. For comprehensive, detailed instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the complete recipe card available at the end of this article.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a generously sized bowl, begin by thoroughly combining the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, finely diced onions, milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, chopped bell pepper, and a good seasoning of salt and black pepper. Mix these ingredients well to create a uniform base that will infuse flavor and moisture throughout the meatloaf.
- Incorporate Beef and Shape: Gently add the ground beef to the prepared mixture. The key here is to mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf. Once combined, gently shape the mixture into an oblong loaf on your baking sheet, ensuring it maintains a relatively loose form for optimal tenderness.
- Initial Baking Phase: Carefully place your shaped meatloaf onto the prepared baking sheet. Transfer it into a preheated oven and allow it to bake for an initial 30 minutes. This first baking period helps the meatloaf to set its shape and begin cooking through before the glaze is applied.
- Glaze and Final Bake: While the meatloaf is undergoing its initial bake, prepare the irresistible glaze. Once the initial 30 minutes are up, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Evenly pour and spread the luscious glaze over the entire top surface of the loaf. Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Upon removing the meatloaf from the oven, resist the urge to slice into it immediately. It’s crucial to let it stand and rest for at least 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring a consistently moist and flavorful result when you finally slice and serve this delicious, homemade comfort food.
Amira’s Expert Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- One of the most frequent disappointments with homemade meatloaf is ending up with a dry, crumbly result. To combat this, I strongly advise against using ground beef leaner than 80%. The higher fat content is crucial as it renders during cooking, basting the meat from within and adding essential moisture that contributes to a wonderfully tender and juicy meatloaf.
- The secret to achieving a restaurant-quality meatloaf, much like the one you’d find at Cracker Barrel, lies in how you handle the meat. It’s imperative not to overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overworking the ground beef can develop the proteins too much, resulting in a tough, rubbery texture. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined, and no more.
- Similarly, when forming the meatloaf into its loaf shape, avoid compressing the meat too tightly. A loosely formed loaf is always superior. Compacting the meat too much will squeeze out air pockets, leading to a dense, heavy, and less tender final product. Aim for a gentle, cohesive shape rather than a brick-like form.
- Maintaining the correct oven temperature is vital for a succulent meatloaf. I recommend baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). A higher temperature will cook the exterior too quickly, potentially drying out the meat before the interior is fully cooked. This moderate temperature allows for even cooking and moisture retention.
- While baking on a sheet is great, you can also opt to bake your meatloaf in a loaf pan. Using a loaf pan can help maintain a uniform shape and can be particularly useful for catching excess drippings, though it might result in less browning on the sides.
- To prevent your meatloaf from becoming soggy at the bottom due to absorbed grease during the baking process, consider a clever trick. You can either place a few slices of plain bread directly underneath the loaf on the baking sheet to soak up the rendered fat, or utilize a wire rack to elevate the meatloaf slightly within the pan. Both methods ensure a beautifully crispy bottom.
- Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. The internal temperature of your meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking is a crucial step often overlooked. This resting period permits the juices within the meat to redistribute evenly throughout the loaf, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and flavorful. Skipping this step can lead to juices running out when you cut it, resulting in a drier meatloaf.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Meatloaf
Storage: Properly stored leftover meatloaf can be a delicious and convenient meal later. Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any remaining meatloaf to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and moisture for future enjoyment.
Freezing: For longer storage, cooked meatloaf freezes exceptionally well. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely. You can freeze it whole or sliced. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months. To use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat meatloaf while preserving its delightful moisture, you have a few excellent options. For quick reheating, the microwave works well; simply add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the dish, cover, and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, for a crisper exterior, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C), again adding a splash of liquid and covering with foil until heated. An air fryer can also crisp up slices beautifully. The added liquid is key to preventing dryness.
Your Questions Answered: FAQs About Meatloaf
While both crackers and breadcrumbs effectively serve as binders in meatloaf, Ritz Crackers are distinctly preferred for this particular Cracker Barrel copycat recipe. Their unique buttery flavor and delicate crunch contribute significantly to the meatloaf’s overall richness and texture, elevating it beyond what plain breadcrumbs typically offer. Breadcrumbs provide a more neutral base, but the Ritz crackers infuse an extra layer of deliciousness that makes this recipe truly special.
Absolutely, freezing cooked meatloaf is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life and prepare meals in advance. You can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. For best results, allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little water or broth to maintain moisture.
The most accurate way to determine if your meatloaf is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf, ensuring it doesn’t touch the baking pan. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. The glaze will also be bubbling and caramelized, and the exterior will be nicely browned.
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. The main ingredient to substitute is the Ritz crackers. Look for gluten-free buttery crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients, especially any pre-made sauces, are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe components are naturally gluten-free.
Meatloaf can become dry for several reasons. Using very lean ground beef (e.g., 95% lean) without enough added fat or moisture is a common culprit. Overmixing the meat mixture can also lead to a tough, dry texture. Additionally, baking the meatloaf at too high a temperature or for too long can evaporate moisture, resulting in a dry loaf. Following tips like using 80-85% lean beef, gentle mixing, and proper baking temperature will help ensure a moist result.
Make-Ahead Meatloaf for Busy Nights
To significantly streamline your cooking process on busy weeknights, this Cracker Barrel meatloaf is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can fully assemble your meatloaf the night before you plan to bake it. Simply combine all the ingredients, shape the mixture into a loaf on your baking sheet, and then thoroughly cover it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store the prepared meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer it directly from the fridge to a preheated oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold. This simple preparation step saves valuable time and effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal fuss.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Meatloaf
- Are you searching for the ideal vegetable side dish to complement this easy meatloaf recipe? I love serving it alongside simple yet flavorful options like Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus, which comes out perfectly crisp, or Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli for a quick and healthy green addition. Both offer delightful textures and flavors that enhance the meal without overpowering the meatloaf.
- Meatloaf and potatoes are an undeniably classic and comforting combination. Elevate your meal with some of my personal favorites: try the incredibly rich Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a creamy, flavorful side. No Instant Pot? No problem! You can still whip up these creamy, delicious Cheesy Mashed Potatoes that are equally satisfying and pair perfectly with the savory meatloaf.
- This versatile meatloaf pairs wonderfully with almost any side dish your family enjoys, making it a flexible centerpiece for your dinner. Some of our most cherished sides to accompany this classic recipe include the sweet and tender Candied Sweet Potatoes, offering a delightful contrast, or this rich and savory Green Beans Casserole with Cream of Chicken, a true comfort food staple that brings the meal together beautifully.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Meatloaf
- For a lighter and equally delicious alternative, consider using lean ground turkey or ground chicken in place of ground beef. This variation offers a healthier option while still delivering a comforting and satisfying meal. Adjust cooking times slightly as poultry often cooks faster.
- If you crave a touch of heat, easily spice up your meatloaf by incorporating some finely diced jalapeños directly into the meat mixture, or swirl in a dash of your favorite hot sauce. These additions will give your meatloaf a vibrant kick without overwhelming its classic flavors.
- Boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor by sneaking in more vegetables. Try mixing in shredded carrots, finely chopped spinach, or even grated zucchini to the meatloaf mixture. These additions are a great way to introduce more vitamins and fiber, often going unnoticed by picky eaters.
- Experiment with the glaze to create different flavor profiles. Instead of the classic ketchup-based glaze, try using a smoky BBQ sauce for a robust taste, or a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze for a milder, yet equally delicious, finish. The possibilities are endless for customizing your meatloaf’s top layer.
- For a unique and savory twist, add some cooked and crumbled turkey bacon or regular bacon to the meatloaf mixture before baking. The smoky, salty notes of the bacon will infuse throughout the loaf, adding an irresistible depth of flavor and a delightful texture.
- Consider adding different herbs and spices like a touch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture to further enhance its savory profile. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can also brighten up the flavors.
- To create individual portions or for faster cooking, shape the meatloaf mixture into mini meatloaves or muffins. Reduce baking time accordingly, typically 20-30 minutes for mini loaves. This is a fun way to serve meatloaf and makes for easy portion control.
More Comforting Recipes You’ll Love
- Love meatloaf but looking to explore some exciting new flavors? Next time, give this unique Salsa Meatloaf a try. It offers a fantastic Mexican-inspired twist on the classic recipe, infusing it with zesty and vibrant notes that will delight your palate.
- If you’re aiming for a healthier option without sacrificing the indulgence of comfort food, consider making this Moist Turkey Meatloaf instead. It’s an excellent way to reduce calories while still enjoying your favorite hearty meal with a deliciously tender texture.
- This Meatloaf with Oatmeal presents a wonderful choice for a super juicy, incredibly delicious, and effortlessly easy family dinner. Complete with its delectable glaze, this meatloaf is so appealing it will have everyone, even the kids, eagerly rushing to the dinner table!
- Experience the ultimate in comforting and satisfying meals with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. This innovative dish expertly combines the best elements of a classic meatloaf with the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. It’s an assured crowd-pleaser, perfect for both family dinners and casual get-togethers.
You Might Also Enjoy These Favorites
- Do you cherish recreating your beloved restaurant dishes at home? If so, you’ll definitely want to check out this Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato recipe. It truly embodies the essence of comfort food, delivering a sweet and savory experience that’s just like the original.
- This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice recipe stands out as one of my absolute favorite copycat recipes to prepare. Not only is it wonderfully filling and incredibly budget-friendly, but its taste is absolutely amazing, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Discover how to make a homemade Big Mac Sauce that tastes precisely like the real thing! This versatile sauce can be generously slathered on all your favorite burgers and sandwiches, transforming any meal into a fast-food delight right in your own kitchen.
Do you adore Cracker Barrel meatloaf, and is it a frequent stop for you? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below – what is your all-time favorite dish there? Share your thoughts and culinary adventures!
If you cherish this recipe as much as I do, please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps others discover this delightful dish. Thank you!
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
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Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 48 Ritz Crackers, crushed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pounds ground beef
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, crushed crackers, diced onions, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bell pepper, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the ground beef to the mixture. Gently shape it into a loaf, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Place the meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the center of the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the glaze until well combined.
- After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the top, spreading it to cover. Return the meatloaf to the oven for another 45-60 minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Notes
- For an even juicier meatloaf and to prevent a soggy bottom, I like to place three slices of plain bread over the parchment paper on the baking sheet and then position the meatloaf on top of the bread. The bread will absorb any excess fat rendered during cooking, keeping your meatloaf perfectly moist and firm.
- Alternatively, you can place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet to elevate the meatloaf, allowing fat to drip away and promoting even circulation of heat for a crispier exterior.
- Please review our comprehensive nutrition disclaimer policy for additional information.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 29g |
Protein: 34g |
Fat: 42g |
Saturated Fat: 16g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 16g |
Trans Fat: 2g |
Cholesterol: 201mg |
Sodium: 610mg |
Potassium: 631mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 13g |
Vitamin A: 426IU |
Vitamin C: 18mg |
Calcium: 182mg |
Iron: 5mg
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