Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a hearty, classic American comfort dish that brings together rich flavors and a tender texture perfect for family dinners. To prepare this delicious meatloaf, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a rectangular baking dish or loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of lean ground beef with 1 small finely diced onion for sweetness and depth of flavor. Add ½ cup of finely diced bell pepper, which is optional but adds color and a subtle crunch. Crush 1½ sleeves of Ritz crackers—about 48 crackers in total—and mix them into the beef mixture. These buttery crackers replace traditional breadcrumbs, giving the meatloaf a moist, soft texture and a distinctive flavor. Next, add 2 large eggs to help bind the ingredients, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for richness, ½ cup of milk to keep the mixture moist, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a hint of umami. Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender. Once the mixture is ready, shape it into a firm loaf and place it into your prepared baking dish.
For the glaze, which gives the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf its signature sweet and tangy finish, combine ½ cup of ketchup, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of mustard in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and glossy. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the loaf, reserving the rest for later. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes. After the first hour, remove the meatloaf carefully, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return it to the oven. Continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This step ensures the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a slightly sticky and flavorful coating.
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, keeping each slice moist and flavorful. Serve it warm with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a classic side of green beans for a complete homestyle meal. This Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf is tender, rich, and perfectly seasoned, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a glaze that adds just the right balance of sweetness and tang. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
