Name: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef (90/10 preferred); 1 lb Ground pork; 1 Yellow onion, finely diced; 1 Green bell pepper, finely diced; 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (or GF alternative); 2 Eggs; 1/2 cup Milk (Whole milk); 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tbsp Maple syrup (optional); 1/2 cup Ketchup; 1/4 cup Brown sugar, packed; 1 tbsp Yellow mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 tsp Garlic powder

Jump to Recipe

If comfort food had a Hall of Fame, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf would surely have a place of honor. This hearty, homestyle classic brings together juicy beef and pork, sweet hints of maple, a subtle crunch from buttery crackers, and a glorious tangy glaze. Every bite is an invitation back to roadside diners and family gatherings, where dinner is about simple pleasures and fond memories. If you’re looking to spark some true Southern hospitality in your own kitchen, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is just the ticket.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s look at the building blocks that make this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf truly special. Each ingredient isn’t just filling space—it delivers big on flavor, texture, and that nostalgic, comforting feeling only this dish can provide.

Ground beef (1 lb, 90/10 preferred): The main player here, lending savory depth and a sturdy texture.
Ground pork (1 lb): Adds richness and juiciness that make every bite deliciously tender.
Yellow onion (finely diced): Sweetness and aroma, perfectly balanced so no bite is bland.
Green bell pepper (finely diced): Pops of fresh flavor and a touch of color that keep the loaf lively.
Ritz crackers (1 cup, crushed): These buttery crumbs bring both binding power and cozy flavor. Gluten-free alternatives work well too!
Eggs (2): The backbone that holds your loaf together, locking in moisture.
Milk (1/2 cup; whole milk works best): Soaks into the crackers for a luxurious mouthfeel.
Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melty, savory, and just the right amount of sharpness for a cheesy twist.
Maple syrup (1 tbsp, optional but recommended): A little sweet magic that elevates the flavor profile.
Ketchup (1/2 cup): Tangy and sweet, forming the base of the irresistible glaze.
Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Deepens the glaze with molasses-like warmth.
Yellow mustard (1 tbsp): Sharpens the glaze with classic zing.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Gives both loaf and glaze that hit of umami richness.
Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Just enough to add savory undertones without overpowering.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by finely chopping your yellow onion and green bell pepper. Heat a splash of oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, then toss in your onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they’re softened, fragrant, and lightly golden—about 5-7 minutes. Give them a moment to cool so they don’t scramble your eggs in the meat mixture later.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while your veggies cool. Grab a standard loaf pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper—this will make serving your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf a total breeze.

Step 3: Mix the Meat Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, milk, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, maple syrup (if you’re feeling extra cozy), Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix until everything is just combined—don’t overwork it or your loaf can turn tough.

Step 4: Add the Sautéed Veggies

Introduce your cooled sautéed onion and bell pepper to the meat mixture. Gently fold them in so they’re evenly distributed. Every slice of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf should have that perfect bite of savory, sweet, and a hint of crunch from the peppers and onions.

Step 5: Shape and Transfer

Turn the meat mixture out into your prepared loaf pan. Use your hands or a spatula to gently shape it into a classic loaf. Press it in just enough for a compact, solid loaf, but don’t pack too tightly—leave room for juicy tenderness.

Step 6: Mix and Apply the First Glaze

Whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until glossy. Spoon half of this glaze over the top of your meatloaf, spreading it evenly for a sweet and tangy lacquer that caramelizes as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake Round One

Slide the pan onto the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The glaze will start to bubble and set, locking in moisture and flavor.

Step 8: Final Glaze and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the loaf, pour on the rest of your glaze, and pop it back in the oven for another 15–20 minutes. Your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the glaze is thick and shiny.

Step 9: Rest Before Slicing

Once baked, let your meatloaf rest in the pan at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting ensures that each slice holds together and stays irresistibly juicy.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Garnishes

Dust the sliced meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, or add a scatter of extra shredded cheddar just before serving for melty goodness. A drizzle of warmed glaze can add that perfect touch of bistro flair.

Side Dishes

Nothing says comfort like Cracker Barrel Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, Southern-style green beans, or buttery corn on the cob. Some even swear by serving it over a slice of toasted white bread for that ultimate diner experience!

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the loaf into thick slabs and stacking them atop fluffy mashed potatoes, finished with an extra spoonful of glaze. Or, make adorable mini-loaves in a muffin tin—perfect for parties or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap cooled leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making day-two Cracker Barrel Meatloaf a true treat.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the entire baked or unbaked loaf snugly in both plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat or bake as usual for home-cooked goodness on demand.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in a 300°F oven, covered, until piping hot—about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for about one minute each, though oven reheating helps preserve the juicy texture and glossy glaze.

FAQs

Can I make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the loaf a day in advance, cover it well, and refrigerate. Just bake and glaze when you’re ready for dinner—this actually lets flavors meld even more.

What’s the best way to keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

The key is using enough binding ingredients—like eggs and crushed crackers—and letting the loaf rest at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up, so your slices stay neat and delicious.

Is Cracker Barrel Meatloaf gluten free?

The original recipe calls for Ritz crackers, which contain gluten. However, you can easily substitute gluten-free crackers with great results! Just be sure to check all other ingredient labels, especially the Worcestershire sauce.

Can I use only ground beef instead of beef and pork?

You can use all beef, but the mix of pork and beef gives the meatloaf extra moisture and flavor. If you do go all-beef, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra splash of milk for tenderness.

How should I reheat leftover Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Your best bet is to reheat in the oven, covered, at 300°F to keep it moist and revive that caramelized glaze. A microwave works for quick single servings but may dry the loaf a bit.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about gathering around the table with a homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf—every slice is a warm hug from the kitchen. I hope this recipe brings hearty comfort and a little Southern nostalgia to your next family meal. Give it a try and savor those classic flavors—you’re in for a real treat!

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 21 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef and pork with a savory-sweet glaze, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Instructions

Sauté Veggies: Chop onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft; let cool
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven and prep loaf pan
Mix Meat Base: Combine beef, pork, eggs, milk, crackers, cheddar, and extras
Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed veggies gently
Shape Loaf: Form loaf and transfer to pan
First Bake with Glaze: Apply half of the glaze; bake for 45 minutes
Final Glaze & Bake: Apply remaining glaze; bake for 15–20 more minutes
Rest Before Serving: Allow meatloaf to rest before slicing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American