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
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 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!
- Shape the Meatloaf – Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- 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.
- Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- 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).
- 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
