There's something comforting about the hearty flavors of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. It's a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with its tender texture, savory seasoning, and that irresistible tomato glaze. Whether you're recreating a nostalgic restaurant favorite or just craving a classic meatloaf, this recipe delivers every time.

I first fell in love with Cracker Barrel's meatloaf during a road trip stop years ago, and it immediately became my gold standard for meatloaf perfection. After a few rounds of experimentation, I cracked the code to recreate it in my own kitchen—and it’s now a family favorite we look forward to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Get ready to savor a dish that's packed with flavor and sure to win over your dinner table. Here’s why this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe deserves a spot on your weekly menu:
First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
It’s also budget-friendly—relying on affordable pantry staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and simple condiments to create something truly special without breaking the bank.
Not to mention, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, serving Sunday dinner, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this meatloaf is always a hit.
Lastly, this recipe captures the signature taste of Cracker Barrel. From the perfectly seasoned beef to the sweet and tangy glaze, every bite feels like dining out—right from the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this meatloaf lies in its humble yet well-balanced ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make it shine:
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Too lean, and the meatloaf can end up dry.
- Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs work perfectly to bind the meatloaf together. For extra flavor, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs or even crushed Ritz crackers.
- Onion and Bell Pepper: Finely diced onion and green bell pepper add sweetness and a slight crunch to the meatloaf. These veggies are a hallmark of the Cracker Barrel version.
- Eggs: Essential for binding, eggs hold everything together while adding richness.
- Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute with 2% if needed.
- Ketchup and Brown Sugar: The iconic glaze is a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard for tang. It’s what gives this meatloaf its crave-worthy sweet-and-savory topping.
Equipment-wise, you’ll need a loaf pan (or a baking sheet if you prefer a free-form shape) and a large mixing bowl to combine your ingredients.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Making this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf at home is easier than you might think! Let me walk you through the process step by step:
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion and bell pepper, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Use clean hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything gently—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or form it into a loaf shape directly on the baking sheet. Press it down gently to ensure it holds its shape.
4. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
5. Bake and Glaze Again
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. About 10 minutes before it’s done, remove it from the oven and brush the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven for a final caramelized finish.
6. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Storage Options
Have leftovers? Lucky you! This meatloaf keeps beautifully, making it a meal-prep superstar:
- Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or oven. For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cheese Lovers: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the glaze for some heat.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and moisture.
Experiment with these variations to find your family’s favorite version!
With this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe, you can bring the flavors of the iconic restaurant right to your dining table. So, grab your loaf pan, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of homestyle comfort food at its finest!
PrintCracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is a flavorful and tender homemade version of the famous restaurant dish, made with ground beef, onions, and a delicious glaze. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onions, bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 600mg
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