Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Bold, tender, cheesy, and cozy—this copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf delivers diner comfort at home. Made with lean ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, sweet onion, cheddar inside, and a sweet-tangy glaze. Hearty but not heavy, it's everything you want from a classic meatloaf and then some!
6
servings
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 lbs (900 g) lean ground beef 85% lean preferred
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 1/2 (0.5) bell pepper finely diced, optional
- 1 sleeve (85 g) Ritz crackers crushed (about 30 crackers, 85g)
- 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar or Colby cheese sharp cheddar or Colby-Jack
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) black pepper freshly ground
Sweet-Tangy Glaze
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
- 1/4 cup (55 g) brown sugar packed
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) yellow mustard
Equipment
- Loaf Pan
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment Paper or Foil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment or foil for easy removal.
- In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard for the glaze. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, add milk. Stir in crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the ground beef to the bowl. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Press the mixture evenly into your prepared loaf pan.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Return to oven and bake for 30–40 minutes more, or until the center reaches 155°F (68°C). If needed, loosely tent with foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Let meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing to help it set. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best texture, try not to overmix the meatloaf once you add the beef. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a covered skillet over medium-low heat or rewarm gently in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 790mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 470IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 3.2mg