Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Easy Copycat Recipe) – A Homestyle Favorite Packed with Flavor

If you're a fan of Cracker Barrel's famous meatloaf, you're in for a treat with this easy-to-follow copycat recipe! This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is made with simple ingredients that come together to create a juicy, flavorful loaf topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, and it’ll bring all the nostalgic, homestyle goodness of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food—juicy, tender, and packed with savory flavors. The combination of ground beef, chopped onions, and bell peppers adds both texture and flavor, while the Ritz crackers and egg help bind everything together for that perfect loaf consistency. The glaze is what really takes this meatloaf over the top: ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard are mixed to create a sweet and tangy topping that caramelizes as it bakes, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to every bite.

Why Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Will Be a Go-To Recipe

This meatloaf is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to make. It uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and comes together with minimal effort. The rich flavor of the meatloaf pairs beautifully with the sweet, tangy glaze, making it a perfect dinner option for both special occasions and weeknight meals. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans or enjoy it as a sandwich the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 19g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 1g

This hearty meatloaf is both filling and comforting, making it the perfect meal for when you’re craving a homestyle classic.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf pairs beautifully with all your favorite comfort food sides. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese for the ultimate homestyle meal. A side of cornbread or dinner rolls will help soak up all the flavorful juices. If you’re looking for something lighter, pair the meatloaf with a fresh green salad or sautéed greens. This meatloaf also makes excellent leftovers—try serving it cold in a sandwich with a little extra glaze spread on the bread for an easy next-day lunch.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices of meatloaf in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. If you want to freeze the meatloaf, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Fun Fact: The History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has been a popular dish for centuries, dating all the way back to ancient Rome. However, it wasn’t until the Great Depression that it became a staple in American kitchens. The dish’s ability to stretch ground meat with fillers like breadcrumbs, crackers, and eggs made it an economical and hearty meal for families. Today, meatloaf remains a beloved comfort food in households across the country, with each family putting their own spin on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, be careful not to overmix the ground beef. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that each slice is tender and moist.
• Glaze it Generously: The glaze is a big part of what makes this meatloaf so delicious. Be sure to spread a generous layer on top before baking, and feel free to add an extra drizzle during the last few minutes of cooking for more flavor.

Optional Variations

• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese in the middle of the meatloaf before shaping it for a cheesy surprise with every slice.
• BBQ Twist: For a smoky, tangy flavor, swap out the ketchup in the glaze for your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Easy Copycat Recipe)

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 12 crackers)
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, bell pepper, egg, crushed Ritz crackers, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and press it into the pan, shaping it into a loaf.
4. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, with your favorite sides.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf copycat recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a classic, homestyle meal right at home. The combination of juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and that sweet, tangy glaze will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or saving it for leftovers, this meatloaf is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!