Cracker Barrell Meatloaf
Few dishes embody the essence of comfort food quite like meatloaf, and Cracker Barrel has made it an American classic.
Moist, tender, and seasoned with homestyle simplicity, this version is enriched with Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar, and a sweet tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. It’s a dish that feels like Sunday supper at home—hearty, nostalgic, and satisfying in every bite.
With this copycat recipe, you can bring the warmth and familiarity of Cracker Barrel’s dining room straight into your own kitchen.
Why People Will Love Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:
True comfort on a plate – tender ground beef blended with cheese, crackers, and onion delivers the warmth and familiarity of home-cooked meals.
A perfect balance of flavors – savory meat and sharp cheddar are beautifully complemented by the sweet, tangy glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Nostalgic and timeless – reminiscent of family dinners and cozy gatherings, it’s the kind of dish that feels both familiar and special.
Hearty yet simple – made with everyday ingredients, it transforms the ordinary into something deeply satisfying and full of character.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser – this recipe speaks to all ages and tastes, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or Sunday suppers.
Key Ingredient:
Ground Beef – the heart of the dish, providing richness and hearty flavor that forms the foundation of true comfort food.
Ritz Crackers – buttery and slightly salty, they act as a tender binder while adding a subtle layer of indulgence.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – melts into the loaf, creating pockets of tangy richness that elevate the classic flavor profile.
Onion – finely chopped, it infuses the meatloaf with aromatic sweetness and depth, balancing the savory richness.
Eggs & Milk – bind the ingredients together while ensuring the loaf remains moist and tender.
Ketchup, Brown Sugar & Mustard Glaze – a signature topping that caramelizes as it bakes, offering sweet, tangy, and savory notes in every bite.
Expert Tips:
Mix gently, not firmly – overworking the meat mixture compresses it, leading to a dense, heavy loaf. Use your hands or a fork to combine until just blended.
Let the mixture rest before baking – a short rest (5–10 minutes) after mixing allows the crackers to absorb liquid fully, helping the loaf hold together while staying moist.
Shape evenly for consistent cooking – form the loaf into an even rectangle, not too tall or too flat, to ensure it bakes through without drying out.
Don’t skip the glaze in stages – adding part of the ketchup-brown sugar-mustard glaze during baking and finishing with the rest gives a caramelized base layer and a glossy, flavorful finish.
Allow resting time after baking – let the meatloaf sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing; this keeps the juices inside and results in cleaner, more satisfying slices.
Check with a thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). This ensures food safety without risking dryness from overbaking.
How to make Cracker Barrell Meatloaf
At Cracker Barrel, meatloaf is one of the most popular items on the menu. Try this easy copycat recipe and see why!
MEATLOAF: SIMPLE, TASTY AND COMFORTING
One of the first things most people think of when they hear “comfort food” is meatloaf.
Everyone has their favorite go-to recipe for meatloaf and I always say if you ask 10 people for their favorite recipe, you’d get 10 different recipes.
If you’ve ever been to Cracker Barrel, America’s “comfort food” restaurant, chances are you’ve tried their meatloaf. But if you haven’t, here’s a chance to make one just as good as theirs right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 2/3 cup milk
– 32 Ritz crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Beat eggs. Add milk and crackers. Stir in onion and cheese. Add ground beef. Mix well. Shape into a loaf.
3. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.
4. Combine ketchup, brown sugar and mustard to make topping. Spoon half of the topping over the meatloaf after 30 mins of baking. Return loaf to oven for 10 more mins of baking. Spoon the rest of the topping over meatloaf, return to oven and bake for 5 – 10 mins more.
Important Notes When Making Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:
Choose quality beef – an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) gives the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor; leaner beef risks producing a dry loaf.
Don’t skip the crackers – Ritz crackers aren’t just a filler; their buttery flavor and tender crumb set this meatloaf apart. Substituting plain breadcrumbs changes both taste and texture.
Cheddar choice matters – sharp cheddar is key; mild cheddar will melt but won’t bring the tang that cuts through the richness of the beef.
Glaze defines the finish – the ketchup-brown sugar-mustard topping is essential. Too little and the loaf feels plain; too much and it can overwhelm the savory base—balance is key.
Let flavors meld – meatloaf tastes even better the next day as the seasonings deepen, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Storage wisdom – refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days or freeze slices individually for easy reheating. A quick warm-up in the oven maintains its texture better than microwaving.
How To Enjoy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf After Cooking:
Allow it to rest – once out of the oven, let the meatloaf sit for at least 10 minutes; this resting time locks in juices and makes slicing cleaner.
Appreciate the glaze – notice how the ketchup-brown sugar-mustard topping has caramelized into a glossy, tangy-sweet crust that beckons you to cut in.
Slice with care – use a sharp knife to cut thick, even slices, each one revealing pockets of melted cheddar and flecks of onion nestled within the tender beef.
Pair each bite thoughtfully – balance the savory, cheesy richness with a forkful of mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread to capture the true comfort-food experience.
Enhance the nostalgia – drizzle extra glaze on top of each slice or serve with a side of gravy for added indulgence.
Savor slowly – let the contrast of tender meat, gooey cheese, and sweet-tangy glaze unfold bite by bite.
Share generously – meatloaf is a dish built for family tables and gatherings; it becomes even more comforting when enjoyed together.
Nutrition Information:
Per serving (about 1 slice, with ~8 slices per loaf):
Calories: 365 kcal | Total Fat: 21.5 g | Saturated Fat: 9.1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8.4 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.7 g | Cholesterol: 120 mg | Sodium: 640–700 mg (depending on added salt & ketchup brand) | Total Carbohydrates: 18.9 g | Dietary Fiber: 0.8 g | Sugars: 8.6 g | Protein: 25.2 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
Just be aware that the flavor and texture will be different, and you may need to adjust the cooking time.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and moisture.
What can I use instead of ketchup for the topping?
You can use barbecue sauce, a homemade tomato glaze, or even a mix of mustard and honey for a different flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How long does it take to bake?
Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes, then apply the topping and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Just allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before putting it in the oven.
What’s the best way to slice meatloaf?
Use a sharp knife and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking to ensure clean slices.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the center reaches a safe temperature of 160°F.