Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting classic packed with savory flavors and a cheesy twist. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, it combines tender ground beef with veggies, cheddar cheese, and a sweet tangy glaze.

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon oil
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350º F. Prepare your baking dish by lining a baking sheet with foil or lining a loaf pan with parchment paper to easily lift the meatloaf later and drain grease.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the onions and bell pepper and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and the onions turn translucent. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and the cooked onion and pepper mixture. Use your hands to gently mix until evenly combined. Shape into a loaf and place in your prepared pan.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
5. Step 5: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to create the glaze.
6. Step 6: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
7. Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. If using parchment paper, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the pan to allow excess grease to drain.
8. Step 8: Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, use sweet bell peppers or omit them entirely.
• Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for a deeper savory taste.
• Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Monterey Jack based on your preference.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the loaf is cooked perfectly without drying out.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker in this meatloaf?

Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with bread crumbs, crushed saltine crackers, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Making sure to include the milk, eggs, and cheese helps keep it moist. Baking at a moderate temperature and not overcooking it also prevents dryness. Letting it rest after baking retains the juices.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

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4.6 from 148 reviews

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a classic, comforting dish packed with savory flavors and a sweet, tangy glaze. Made with ground beef, finely chopped vegetables, crushed Ritz crackers, and cheddar cheese, it’s baked to perfection and topped with a delicious ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard glaze. Perfect for family dinners, this meatloaf is moist, flavorful, easy to prepare, and sure to satisfy.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 1 Tablespoon oil
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Prepare your baking vessel by lining a baking sheet with foil or a traditional loaf pan with parchment paper, which helps in lifting the meatloaf and draining grease later.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Swirl to coat the pan then add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and onions translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly mix and evenly combine all ingredients.
4. Shape and Bake: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
5. Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
6. Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155º F.
7. Rest and Drain: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. Use the parchment paper to carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan, allowing excess grease to drain back into the pan.
8. Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve while warm. Enjoy this comforting classic with your favorite sides.

Notes

• Using parchment paper in a loaf pan helps remove the meatloaf easily and drains excess grease.
• Make sure to let the sautéed vegetables cool slightly before mixing with eggs to avoid scrambling the eggs.
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety; the meatloaf should reach 155º F.
• Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps retain juices and ensures cleaner slices.
• Crushed Ritz crackers add moisture and a slight buttery flavor; you can substitute with breadcrumbs if preferred.

Keywords: meatloaf, Cracker Barrel style, classic meatloaf, baked meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef, dinner