Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel's meatloaf is a beloved comfort food, known for its moist texture and flavorful combination of ingredients. This easy copycat recipe brings that same delicious taste to your home kitchen. By using ground beef, finely chopped onions and bell peppers, and buttery Ritz crackers, this meatloaf achieves a tender consistency and rich flavor. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it offers a satisfying meal reminiscent of the classic Cracker Barrel experience. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ pounds lean ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare Vegetables: In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and bell pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

4. Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

5. Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, in a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until well combined.

6. Apply Glaze: After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
   
   

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 485 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 41g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 26g