Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners and warm hospitality.

It’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for weeknight meals or cozy gatherings. The combination of ground beef, crunchy Ritz crackers, and zesty toppings creates a delicious meatloaf that everyone will love.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 small finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
• 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 1/2 sleeves)
• 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard

3-Step Directions:

1. Prepare Mixture & Topping: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the topping; set aside. In a large bowl, combine eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the ground beef and mix gently until just combined.
2. Shape & Bake: Press the meat mixture into a greased and lined loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Add Topping & Finish: Spread the prepared topping evenly over the partially baked meatloaf and return to the oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C). Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Serve your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf hot, sliced into hearty pieces. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. A drizzle of extra ketchup on the side can offer a tasty touch for those who love a bit more sauce.

How to Store Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Cut the meatloaf into slices, and wrap them individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

• For a moister meatloaf, don’t skip the milk.
• If you want extra flavor, consider adding some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
• Adjust the amount of ketchup on top to your taste for a sweeter or tangier flavor.

Variation

You can customize this meatloaf by using different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken. You can also add in vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to eat.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 155 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I use different crackers instead of Ritz?

Yes! You can use any type of finely crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Just keep in mind that different crackers may alter the flavor slightly.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

A comforting meatloaf dish inspired by Cracker Barrel, featuring ground beef, Ritz crackers, and zesty toppings for a flavorful meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 small finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
• 48 crackers Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 1/2 sleeves)
• 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup adjust to taste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the topping; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the ground beef and mix gently until just combined.

Shaping and Baking

1. Press the meat mixture into a greased and lined loaf pan.
2. Bake for 30 minutes.

Topping and Finishing

1. Spread the prepared topping evenly over the partially baked meatloaf.
2. Return to the oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
3. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For moister meatloaf, don't skip the milk. Consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture for extra flavor. You can customize with different types of ground meat or vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini.