Make the famous Cracker Barrel Meatloaf right at home with simple ingredients you already have! This tender, juicy meatloaf is made with ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, and melty cheddar cheese — all topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for Sunday dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve ever been to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, you know their meatloaf is iconic — hearty, flavorful, and perfectly glazed. This homemade version captures all that nostalgic flavor with everyday ingredients and no fancy steps.
- Simple pantry ingredients – no complicated seasonings or fillers.
- Moist and tender texture – thanks to crushed Ritz crackers and milk.
- Cheesy twist – shredded cheddar adds richness and flavor.
- Better than takeout – fresh, homemade, and full of love!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 3 large eggs
- ½ white onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers), crushed
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Combine the base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Add the beef: Stir in the ground beef and mix gently with your hands until evenly incorporated.
- Shape and bake: Form the mixture into a loaf on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Top and finish baking: Spread the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for another 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a true Cracker Barrel-style meal.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix — this keeps the loaf tender.
- Use lean ground beef to avoid greasy results.
- Add a bit of BBQ sauce to the glaze for a smoky twist.
- Line your pan for easier cleanup.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This classic comfort dish pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Smashed Potatoes
- Southern Green Beans
- Mac and Cheese
- Buttermilk Biscuits
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave gently until heated through.
⭐ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Resting Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~414 per serving
Tender, juicy, and topped with a caramelized glaze — this homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf tastes just like the restaurant favorite! Simple, comforting, and perfect for family dinners.