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Cracker Barrel-Inspired Meatloaf


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

Recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel meatloaf at home with a buttery Ritz cracker twist, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze. This comforting, juicy, and flavorful meatloaf is perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic homestyle meal!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 small onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar, eggs, milk, onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
  3. Shape the Meatloaf – Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
  4. Prepare the Glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
  5. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Add the Final Glaze – Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Rest & Serve – Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal!

Notes

  • No Ritz crackers? Substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers.
  • Want extra moisture? Add 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce to the meat mixture.
  • For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke in the meat mixture.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American