This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef with diced vegetables and a tangy glaze for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this classic recipe is easy to make and tastes just like the one from your favorite restaurant!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Comfort: Brings the warmth of a homestyle meal to your table.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
Tangy Glaze: The ketchup-based glaze adds a sweet and savory touch.
Versatile: Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup diced onions
3/4 cup diced bell pepper
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onions, diced bell pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
BBQ Twist: Replace the ketchup glaze with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Vegetable-Packed: Add shredded carrots or zucchini for a boost of nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the meatloaf and glaze, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

2. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

You can substitute crushed saltine crackers, breadcrumbs, or even oats.

3. How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and let it rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Shredded carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms work well without altering the texture too much.

5. How do I check the doneness without a thermometer?

Cut into the center of the loaf—if the juices run clear and it’s no longer pink, it’s done.

6. What’s the best way to reheat meatloaf without drying it out?

Cover slices with foil and warm in the oven, or microwave with a damp paper towel on top.

7. Can I use ground pork or sausage?

Yes, you can use a mixture of ground beef and pork or sausage for a richer flavor.

8. What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are perfect complements.

9. How can I make the glaze sweeter?

Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey to the glaze mixture.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a deliciously classic dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this hearty meatloaf will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with your favorite sides for a comforting meal that never goes out of style!