Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Description:

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a traditional Southern-style dish made with ground beef, onions, bell peppers, Ritz crackers, and a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze. Moist and flavorful, this meatloaf is perfect for family dinners and brings that cozy, down-home feel straight to your table.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)

• 1 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers (about 25 crackers)

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions:

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

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, bell pepper, eggs, milk, seasonings, and cheddar cheese.

3. Mix by hand until well incorporated—don’t overwork it.

4. Shape into a loaf and place in prepared loaf pan.

5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.

6. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.

7. Bake for 45 minutes, then spread remaining glaze on top.

8. Bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.                                                                             Notes:

• Ritz crackers add a buttery richness and help bind the loaf.

• Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture.

• Letting the meatloaf rest helps juices redistribute and keeps it moist when slicing.

Tips:

• Add 2 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.

• For a healthier version, use half ground turkey.

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid under/overcooking.

• Make mini loaves in a muffin pan for portion control and faster cooking.

Servings:

Serves 6–8 people

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 390

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Sugars: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 600mg

Benefits:

• High in protein – supports muscle health.

• Comfort food classic – perfect for family-style meals.

• Customizable – easily adapted to dietary needs.

• Freezer-friendly – great for meal prep.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use oats instead of crackers?
A: Yes, use ¾ cup quick oats as a substitute.

Q: How long does it keep?
A: Up to 4 days in the fridge, or 3 months frozen.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate uncooked meatloaf up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What sides go well with it?
A: Mashed potatoes, green beans, macaroni and cheese, or coleslaw pair beautifully.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free crackers or oats in place of Ritz.