Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Classic Comfort Food)
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a comforting, homestyle classic inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel restaurant favorite. Made with juicy ground beef, buttery crushed Ritz crackers, tender onions, eggs, milk, and melty cheddar cheese, this meatloaf bakes up moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Finished with a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s the perfect family dinner that tastes just like the real thing—if not better!
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
- Copycat Cracker Barrel-style recipe
- Super moist and tender (never dry!)
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients
To make this classic Cracker Barrel meatloaf, you will need ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery binder, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. For the glaze, you’ll use ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create that signature sweet-and-savory topping.
Full Ingredient List
For the Meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 24 crackers)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Glaze:
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, milk, eggs, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix, or the meatloaf may become dense.
Step 3: Shape and Glaze
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture
- Finely chop the onion so it melts into the meatloaf
- Ritz crackers add richness—don’t substitute unless needed
- Let meatloaf rest before slicing to avoid crumbling
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey
- Extra cheesy: Add more cheddar or mix in mozzarella
- Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce
- Mini meatloaves: Bake in muffin tins for quicker cooking
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in oven or microwave
- Meatloaf freezes well for up to 2 months
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Calories: ~480 kcal per serving (approximate)