There's nothing quite like a hearty slice of meatloaf to bring comfort to the dinner table. This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is a fan-favorite, known for its perfectly moist texture, rich flavor, and that irresistible glaze on top.

I first tried recreating this classic dish after a trip to the restaurant left me craving more. With just a few tweaks to the ingredients and a little experimentation, I nailed down a version that tastes just like the original—and now, it’s a regular on our family menu. Let me show you how to make it!

Why You'll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with this irresistible meatloaf recipe. It’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With simple, everyday ingredients, you can whip up a meatloaf that tastes like it came straight from the restaurant. Even beginner cooks can nail this dish on the first try.

The texture is spot-on, thanks to a perfect mix of ground beef, finely chopped vegetables, and just the right amount of binding ingredients. No dry or crumbly meatloaf here—just tender slices that hold together beautifully.

And let’s talk about the signature glaze. Sweet, tangy, and caramelized to perfection, it’s the perfect finishing touch that elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or save leftovers for the week, this recipe is as versatile as it is tasty. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s signature flavor and texture.

Ground beef is the star of the show. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of fat and flavor. Leaner beef may result in a drier meatloaf, so don’t skimp on the fat content for the best results.

Vegetables like onions and green bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and a touch of crunch. Make sure to dice them finely so they blend seamlessly into the loaf. You can even sauté them briefly if you prefer a softer texture.

Ritz crackers are a key ingredient in this recipe, acting as the binder. They provide a slightly buttery flavor that elevates the meatloaf, making it extra moist and flavorful. Crushed crackers work best here for an even consistency.

The ketchup-based glaze is what makes this recipe shine. A blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of mustard creates the perfect sweet-and-tangy topping. Brush it on generously for that irresistible, caramelized crust.

You’ll also need a loaf pan for shaping and baking. If you don’t have one, free-forming the loaf on a baking sheet works just as well.

How To Make This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Making this meatloaf is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, prepare your ingredients. Finely dice your onions and bell peppers, and crush the Ritz crackers into small crumbs.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced vegetables, cracker crumbs, eggs, and a splash of milk. Add a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder for seasoning. Use your hands to mix everything together gently—overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan and press it down evenly. If you’re free-forming, shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Spread about half of it over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.

Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes, then remove it from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

For reheating smaller portions, the microwave works fine—just cover the slice with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to your tastes and dietary needs.

Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Just be mindful that these meats can be a bit drier, so consider adding a splash of extra milk or a bit more ketchup to the mixture.

Want to sneak in more veggies? Try adding shredded carrots or zucchini to the mix. They’ll blend right in and add a boost of nutrients without altering the flavor.

For a gluten-free option, replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

If you like your meatloaf with a spicy kick, mix a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the glaze.

Experiment with different glazes too! A barbecue sauce glaze or even a honey mustard topping can give this classic dish a fun twist.

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With its perfect combination of flavors, textures, and that crave-worthy glaze, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Enjoy!