Cracker Barrel Style Meatloaf

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about slicing into a hearty, cheesy meatloaf glazed with tangy ketchup and baked to golden perfection. Inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel meatloaf, this dish takes you back to cozy family dinners and comforting southern flavors. The crushed Ritz crackers add a subtle buttery crunch, while the melted cheddar gives every bite a creamy, savory richness.

Perfect for Sunday suppers or meal-prep dinners, this meatloaf recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, offering a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory beef and cheese filling. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for the ultimate comfort meal that the whole family will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced

• 1 1/2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 cup ketchup (for the meat mixture)

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp yellow mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, green pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and 1/4 cup ketchup.

3. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it in evenly.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.

6. Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return to bake for an additional 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Cracker Barrel Style Meatloaf – A True Comfort Classic

Few dishes scream “comfort food” more than a warm, oven-baked meatloaf. And if you’ve ever visited Cracker Barrel, chances are you’ve either tried or heard about their iconic meatloaf. Juicy, tender, loaded with cheddar, and glazed with a sweet-savory topping, this recipe has everything a family dinner should have. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or a Cracker Barrel fan, this homemade version is sure to be a hit at your table.

In this article, we’re diving deep into the art of making this beloved meatloaf from scratch, sharing not only a faithful copycat recipe but also the why behind each ingredient, pairing suggestions, storage tips, and variations for every lifestyle. So, grab your apron and get ready to bring the heart of the South right into your kitchen.

Why This Meatloaf Stands Out

Unlike many traditional meatloaf recipes that can come out dry or bland, Cracker Barrel’s version (and this copycat) leans into moisture, richness, and a boost of flavor from cheddar cheese and buttery Ritz crackers. These elements add both texture and taste that elevate this from a simple beef loaf to a show-stopping comfort food.

The Secret Is In the Simplicity

What makes this dish so special is that it doesn’t rely on hard-to-find ingredients or complicated techniques. The simplicity is its strength. It’s built from pantry staples, ground beef, onion, pepper, eggs, crackers, and cheese, yet delivers an exceptional eating experience every time. The glaze on top, a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, caramelizes in the oven for that signature sticky-sweet finish.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

Understanding the role of each ingredient helps you master the dish and adapt it to your own tastes.

Ground Beef

We recommend using 80/20 ground beef, which means it contains 20% fat. This ratio is ideal for meatloaf as it provides the right balance of juiciness and flavor without making the loaf greasy. Leaner beef tends to dry out, while fattier meat can become too oily.

Ritz Crackers

Instead of breadcrumbs, this recipe uses crushed Ritz crackers. They offer a buttery, slightly sweet flavor and help bind the meatloaf without making it dense. It’s a genius swap that adds both richness and familiarity.

Cheddar Cheese

This is what sets this meatloaf apart from many others. The sharpness of cheddar cheese adds a creamy, salty contrast to the savory beef. As it melts during baking, it weaves flavor throughout the entire loaf.

Onion and Bell Pepper

The fresh crunch and mild sweetness of these vegetables balance the richness of the meat and cheese. They also keep the texture interesting, preventing the meatloaf from feeling monotonous.

Ketchup, Brown Sugar, and Mustard Glaze

A meatloaf without a glaze can feel incomplete. This combination adds the perfect final touch, tangy, slightly sweet, and sticky with a rich umami punch. As it bakes, it forms a caramelized crust that’s irresistible.

Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overworking the mixture can lead to a dense, rubbery texture.

• Let it rest: Always rest your meatloaf for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, so every slice is moist and flavorful.

• Use a thermometer: To ensure it’s cooked through without drying out, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This meatloaf shines brightest when served alongside classic Southern sides. Here are some top pairing options:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic partner for meatloaf. Whether you like them buttery, garlicky, or smothered in gravy, they complement the beefy richness perfectly.

Green Beans

Sauteed or steamed green beans offer a bright, crisp contrast that cuts through the heaviness of the meat.

Mac and Cheese

If you’re going all-in on comfort food, why not double up on cheese? A creamy baked mac and cheese makes this meal unforgettable.

Cornbread

Add a slice of warm cornbread on the side and you’ve got yourself a down-home feast.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, and it stores beautifully.

Refrigeration

Once baked and cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the uncooked or cooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Store for up to 3 months. If freezing raw, defrost overnight in the fridge before baking. If frozen after cooking, you can reheat it directly from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to your bake time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Want to personalize your meatloaf? Here are a few ways to adapt the dish:

• Low-carb: Swap crackers for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.

• Vegetarian: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat, and omit the cheese or use vegan alternatives.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free crackers or oats instead of Ritz crackers.

• Add-ins: Try mixing in cooked bacon, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for added depth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for:

• Family dinners: A surefire hit with both kids and adults.

• Leftovers: Makes amazing sandwiches or next-day lunchboxes.

• Freezer meals: Great to prep ahead and have on hand for busy nights.

• Holidays or potlucks: Bring a taste of home to gatherings and parties.

It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Style Meatloaf isn’t just another meatloaf; it’s a memory on a plate. The kind of meal that reminds you of Sunday suppers, family conversations, and warm kitchens filled with comforting smells. Whether you’re recreating the restaurant favorite or discovering it for the first time, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

It’s adaptable, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a staple in your household. Once you’ve had it with that sticky glaze and cheesy goodness inside, regular meatloaf just won’t cut it. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it holds a place in the hearts (and bellies) of comfort food lovers everywhere.