Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – Copycat Recipe

✅ Old-fashioned comfort
✅ Tender, juicy, & flavorful
✅ Just like the restaurant (maybe better!)

Introduction

If you’ve ever ordered meatloaf at Cracker Barrel, you know it’s not just any meatloaf — it’s ultra moist, perfectly seasoned, and topped with a sweet tangy glaze that makes every bite comforting and satisfying. The secret? A combination of onions, green peppers, and crushed buttery Ritz crackers, which keep the loaf tender and full of flavor.

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf brings that same nostalgic, homestyle goodness right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, potlucks, family meals, or any time you want warm, hearty comfort food — with minimal effort and ingredients.

Ingredients List

For the Meatloaf

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely diced
1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

For the Sweet Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Splash of Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Timing

Step	Time
Prep Time	10 minutes
Bake Time	55–65 minutes
Rest Time	10 minutes
Total Time	~1 hour 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:

Ground beef
Eggs
Onion
Bell pepper
Crushed Ritz crackers
Milk
Salt, pepper, garlic powder
Worcestershire sauce
Parsley

Mix gently with hands or spatula — do not overmix, or meatloaf becomes dense.

Step 3: Shape

Form mixture into a loaf shape and place in loaf pan or on a parchment-lined sheet.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
Mustard
Worcestershire (optional)

Spread half of the glaze over top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake 45 minutes.
Remove, spread remaining glaze, and bake 10–20 minutes more, until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest & Slice

Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing — this helps hold its shape.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320 kcal
Protein	19g
Fat	18g
Carbs	18g

Healthier & Dietary Alternatives

Goal	Swap
Lower Fat	Use 93% lean beef or ground turkey
Gluten-Free	Use gluten-free butter crackers
Lower Sugar	Reduce brown sugar in glaze by half
Higher Veggies	Add shredded carrot or zucchini to the mixture

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

Mashed potatoes
Brown gravy or pan gravy
Green beans
Mac and cheese
Cornbread
Buttered peas
Side salad

Don’t forget extra glaze on the side!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Solution
Meatloaf cracks	Mix gently and don’t overbake
Too dense	Do not pack mixture tightly when shaping
Dry texture	Use 80/20 ground beef + rest before slicing
Soggy bottom	Bake on a parchment-lined sheet instead of loaf pan

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
Freeze (whole or slices): Up to 2 months
Reheat: Low oven or microwave with splash of broth to keep moist

Leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day.

Conclusion

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf gives you all the classic, cozy flavors of the restaurant favorite right at home — moist, tender, and topped with a perfectly sweet glaze. It’s warm, comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying every single time.

Once you make this version — it might just become your family’s new favorite meatloaf.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes — assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze it unbaked?
Yes — shape loaf, wrap tightly, freeze. Thaw before baking.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — bake two loaves side by side, same time.

4. Can I use all bell pepper instead of onion?
Yes — the flavor will be milder, but still delicious.

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