When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the classic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. This copycat recipe replicates the same moist, tender, and flavorful meatloaf served at Cracker Barrel, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Made with ground beef, Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and topped with a savory ketchup glaze, this meatloaf is both simple and delicious. In this guide, we will take you through step-by-step instructions, tips to perfect it, and explore various serving options.
If you are looking for more ground beef recipes, you can check out our collection of ground beef dishes to complement this meatloaf.
Ingredients for the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
To make the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup finely diced bell pepper
- 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1½ sleeves)
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Pro Tip:
Do not overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf, so mix just until combined for a tender result.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the ground beef and mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a moist meatloaf.
- Shape the loaf:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Make sure the loaf is not too tightly packed to avoid a dense texture.
- Prepare the glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until well combined. Set aside for topping.
- Bake the meatloaf:
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. Remove it from the oven, spread the glaze over the top, and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Rest and serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.
For more delicious Cracker Barrel-inspired dishes, you can also try making this Pineapple Upside Down Cake, another favorite from their menu.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- Use the right beef: Opt for 80% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
- Let the loaf breathe: Don’t overcrowd your loaf pan. Giving the loaf room to cook allows the edges to caramelize and develop a nice crust.
- Avoid overmixing: Mixing too much can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix until just combined for a tender result.
- Rest the meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes it easier to slice.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
A good meal is never complete without the perfect side dishes. The savory, juicy meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides to create a satisfying meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with meatloaf.
- Mac and Cheese: Two comfort foods on one plate! You can check out this Mac and Cheese recipe for a perfect cheesy side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Glazed carrots or roasted green beans are great choices to add a touch of color and nutrition to your plate.
- Biscuits: A side of warm, flaky biscuits is a perfect way to round out the meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Meatloaf
One of the best parts about meatloaf is how well it stores for future meals. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftover meatloaf:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Meatloaf freezes well! To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
If you’re a fan of make-ahead meals, you can even double the recipe and freeze half for a ready-to-go meal later in the week!
Variations of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
There are many ways to tweak the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Turkey Meatloaf: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef. This makes a leaner but still flavorful alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Cheese Variations: Use Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add more vegetables like shredded carrots or finely chopped celery for extra nutrition and texture.
For a delicious twist on another classic, try the Salisbury Steak Recipe for a meal with similar flavors but a different texture and preparation method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Can I substitute Ritz crackers with breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can substitute the Ritz crackers with an equal amount of breadcrumbs. The crackers add a buttery flavor, but breadcrumbs will work as a binding agent.
What’s the best way to keep the meatloaf moist?
Using the right ratio of fat in your ground beef (80% lean) and not overmixing the ingredients are key to keeping the meatloaf moist. Also, be sure to rest the meatloaf after cooking.
Can I make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make the glaze sweeter or less sweet?
To make the glaze sweeter, add a little more brown sugar. If you prefer a tangier glaze, reduce the sugar and add a touch more mustard.
How long can I store leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts on Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a true comfort food classic. Its combination of simple ingredients, tender meat, and a sweet-savory glaze makes it an all-time favorite for family dinners. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to biscuits.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With a few pro tips and simple tweaks, you can make it your own while still enjoying that iconic Cracker Barrel flavor right at home.
For more great family-friendly recipes, check out our Ground Beef Recipe Collection and explore other comfort food favorites that are sure to please your loved ones.