Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is a staple of Southern homestyle dining — tender, savory, and topped with a tangy-sweet glaze that makes each bite unforgettable. Now, you can bring this beloved dish to your kitchen with a simple, family-friendly recipe.
📖 The Story Behind Cracker Barrel’s Famous Meatloaf
Cracker Barrel’s reputation for cozy, home-cooked meals has made their meatloaf one of the most requested items on the menu. It’s the definition of comfort food: juicy ground beef, seasoned to perfection, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang.
Whether you’re recreating restaurant favorites or just want a dependable dinner dish, this meatloaf checks all the boxes — hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
🥩 How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf at Home
This copycat meatloaf recipe uses simple pantry staples and can be on the table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or saltines)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, gently mix together all meatloaf ingredients until just combined — don’t overwork the mixture.
Shape and Bake
Shape the meat into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes.
Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
Glaze and Finish Baking
Remove meatloaf after 45 minutes, spread glaze evenly on top, and return to oven. Bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Let It Rest
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in moisture and create clean slices.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Classic combo: Mashed potatoes and brown gravy
- Southern style: Fried okra, collard greens, and cornbread
- Comfort twist: Serve with mac & cheese and steamed broccoli
- Sandwich it: Use leftovers in a meatloaf sandwich with extra glaze and pickles
- Brunch upgrade: Top a slice with a fried egg and hot sauce
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your meatloaf with Southern-style sides for a comforting meal:
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Green beans or collard greens
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Macaroni and cheese
- Steamed carrots or fried okra
🔄 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze in a bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F or microwave in 30-second bursts.
🤩 Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
- Authentic Flavor: Just like the restaurant version
- Moist & Tender: Thanks to crushed crackers and milk
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep or freezing in portions
🍽️ Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl (for glaze)
- Meat thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 🔸 For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or saltines
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 🔸 For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2️⃣ Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently with hands or a spoon—don’t overmix.
- 3️⃣ Shape and Bake
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape. Place into the prepared pan or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- 4️⃣ Prepare the Glaze
- Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
- 5️⃣ Glaze and Finish Baking
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread the glaze evenly on top.
- Return to oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (70°C).
- 6️⃣ Let It Rest
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing for best flavor and structure.
Notes
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: ~410
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
🔥 Pro Tips
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the meat can make it tough. Mix just until combined.
- Rest before slicing: Let it sit at least 10 minutes after baking for clean, juicy slices.
- Use a thermometer: Internal temp should hit 160°F (70°C) for safe, moist results.
- Double the glaze: Save half for drizzling over leftovers or dipping.
- Prep extra: Make two loaves and freeze one for an easy future meal.
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: ~410
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
❓ FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or even a beef/pork blend can be used—just adjust cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster and be less moist.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
What’s the best way to freeze it?
Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf (whole or in slices) in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
It may be due to too little binder (like crackers or eggs). Be sure to measure properly and avoid overmixing.
Can I double the glaze?
Definitely! Many people love extra glaze—just double the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard and slather on generously.
Do I have to use Ritz crackers?
Nope! Saltines or even oats can be used in place of Ritz crackers—just keep the measurements the same.
🔄 Variations & Add-Ons
Cheesy Twist: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for extra richness.
Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the loaf with strips of bacon before baking for a smoky, savory touch.
Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mix.
Turkey Option: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version — reduce bake time slightly.
Vegetable Boost: Grate in carrots or zucchini to sneak in some veggies.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.
Can I bake this in muffin tins?
Absolutely! Divide the mixture into muffin cups for mini meatloaves. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
Can I skip the green peppers?
Yes — substitute with chopped mushrooms, celery, or just leave them out.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written — use gluten-free crackers and check all sauces and seasonings.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe delivers all the comfort and satisfaction of a classic Southern dinner — without leaving your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or craving nostalgic flavors, this hearty dish brings warmth to the table every time.
Give it a try — and enjoy every forkful of this homestyle favorite! 🍽️💛
