When it comes to comfort food classics, few dishes stir up as much nostalgia as the iconic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Juicy, hearty, and loaded with down-home flavor, this Southern-style meatloaf has become a staple for families who crave a warm, satisfying dinner. Whether you’ve enjoyed it at the restaurant or are looking to recreate that irresistible homestyle taste in your own kitchen, this recipe delivers everything you love—moist ground beef, savory seasonings, tender vegetables, and a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
What makes this dish truly irresistible is its balance of flavors and textures. The inside is moist and tender thanks to a combination of eggs, milk, and Ritz crackers (yes, the buttery crackers are the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture). Meanwhile, the ketchup-based glaze on top provides the perfect contrast—slightly sweet, tangy, and glossy. Each slice is hearty enough to stand alone, yet it pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or macaroni and cheese.
This isn’t just any meatloaf—it’s the recipe that has kept Cracker Barrel customers coming back for decades. The best part? You don’t need to leave home to enjoy it. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step method to bring this legendary dish to your dinner table.
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Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
The beauty of this recipe is in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an important role in making this meatloaf moist, flavorful, and truly unforgettable.
Meatloaf Base:
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) – The star of the dish. Using beef with a little fat ensures the loaf stays moist and juicy without becoming greasy.
1 medium onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness, depth, and a subtle bite. The onion also releases moisture during baking, keeping the loaf tender.
1 small green bell pepper, finely diced – A Cracker Barrel signature touch. It brings a mild, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the beef.
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers – Unlike breadcrumbs, Ritz crackers add buttery richness and a delicate texture, preventing the loaf from becoming dense.
2 large eggs, beaten – Work as a binder, holding all the ingredients together. They also contribute to the loaf’s moist interior.
½ cup whole milk – Softens the cracker crumbs and enhances the creamy, tender texture.
1 teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of the meat and vegetables.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth without overwhelming the dish.
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – A subtle boost of savory flavor.
Glaze:
1 cup ketchup – Forms the base of the glaze, offering tanginess and sweetness.
2 tablespoons brown sugar – Caramelizes during baking, adding richness and balance.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard – Provides a zesty tang that cuts through the sweetness.
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) – A depth-boosting umami element that enhances the glaze.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Follow these clear and detailed steps for foolproof results every time.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. If you prefer crispy edges, use a baking sheet. For a more traditional loaf shape, go with the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the onion and green bell pepper into very fine pieces. Smaller pieces ensure they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf and cook evenly.
If you want extra sweetness, you can sauté them lightly in olive oil before mixing.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Using clean hands (the best tool for the job), gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture—this is key to keeping the loaf tender.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet.
Shape it into a loaf, about 10 inches long and 4–5 inches wide. Smooth the top with your hands or a spatula.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Spoon about half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Save the remaining glaze for later.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50 minutes.
Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
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Why This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Is Loved
There’s a reason this recipe has stood the test of time. Here’s why it’s adored by families everywhere:
Moist and tender texture – Thanks to Ritz crackers, milk, and eggs, every bite is juicy and soft.
Perfectly balanced flavors – The sweetness of the glaze complements the savory richness of the beef and vegetables.
Family-friendly meal – Hearty and filling, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults.
Make-ahead friendly – You can prep the meatloaf a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Budget-friendly ingredients – A comfort food classic that doesn’t break the bank.
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Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
Don’t overmix – Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
Use parchment paper – If baking on a sheet pan, parchment helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Check doneness with a thermometer – The loaf is ready at 160°F. This guarantees safety without drying it out.
Double the glaze – If you love extra sauciness, make a little more glaze to serve on the side.
Leftovers tip – Meatloaf slices make fantastic sandwiches the next day, especially with a swipe of mayonnaise or extra ketchup.
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Serving Suggestions
To complete the homestyle experience, serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with classic Southern sides:
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy – Creamy and rich, the perfect pairing with meatloaf’s hearty texture.
Green Beans with Bacon – Adds a salty, smoky contrast.
Macaroni and Cheese – A kid-friendly side that balances the savory loaf.
Buttermilk Biscuits or Cornbread – For soaking up every last drop of glaze.
Side Salad with Ranch Dressing – A refreshing balance to the richness.
For a restaurant-style experience, make a meatloaf dinner plate with two slices of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, a green vegetable, and a bread side.
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Conclusion: A Simple, Delicious Classic
If you’ve been searching for the best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe, this is it. With its moist, tender texture, sweet-and-savory glaze, and homestyle flavor, it’s everything you crave in a comfort food clas
sic. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent—perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even special gatherings.
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