Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is a sweet-and-savory, homestyle classic—tender beef mixed with veggies and crackers, baked with a tangy ketchup glaze.
🍽️ What it is
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a copycat version of the popular comfort dish, known for its soft texture, mild seasoning, and signature tomato-based topping.
🧾 Ingredients
🥩 Meatloaf
- 500–700g ground beef
- 1 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz-style)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
🍅 Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Mix the meatloaf
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Combine all meatloaf ingredients in a bowl
- Mix gently (don’t overwork)
2. Shape
- Form into a loaf shape
- Place in a baking dish or loaf pan
3. Add glaze
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard
- Spread evenly over the top
4. Bake
- Bake 50–60 minutes
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing
😋 Flavor & texture
- Tender, moist interior
- Slight sweetness from glaze
- Mild, comforting flavor with soft vegetables
🍽️ Serve with
- Mashed potatoes
- Green beans
- Corn or mac and cheese
🔁 Tips for best results
- Use 80/20 beef for juiciness
- Finely chop veggies so they blend in
- Don’t overmix (keeps it soft, not dense)