cracker barrel meatloaf recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe is a juicy and tender copycat version of the restaurant favorite. It combines ground beef with buttery crackers, sharp Cheddar cheese, onion, and bell pepper, then finishes with a tangy ketchup glaze for a comforting family meal. Discover more flavorful recipes like Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe right here.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow bell pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers, such as Ritz
  • 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the two long sides.
  • Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and yellow bell pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, until tender.
  • Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Whisk in the milk, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir in the cooked onion and bell pepper, shredded Cheddar cheese, and cracker crumbs.
  • Add the ground beef and gently mix until everything is just combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan and place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Bake for 30 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon the ketchup mixture evenly over the top.
  • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 40 to 50 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Let the meatloaf cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before serving.
  • Use the parchment paper to carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice and serve.

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Cool Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings