Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Certainly! Here’s a delicious and easy-to-follow copycat recipe for Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe (Copycat)

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

🧾 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef

• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion

• 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 1/2 sleeves Ritz crackers (approximately 48 crackers), crushed

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, whole milk, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and crushed Ritz crackers. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure a tender meatloaf.

3. Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

4. Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard in a small bowl to create the glaze.

5. Apply Glaze and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).

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

💡 Tips for Success

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent a dense meatloaf.

• Use Full-Fat Ingredients: Opt for whole milk and 80% lean ground beef to maintain moisture and flavor.

• Finely Chop Vegetables: Ensure the onion and bell pepper are finely chopped to integrate smoothly into the meat mixture.

• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to make slicing easier and to retain its juices.

This hearty meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread. Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-inspired meal!