Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf: A Classic Comfort Food Made at Home

When it comes to old-fashioned comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty slice of meatloaf — especially the kind you’d find at a beloved roadside diner or a cozy family restaurant. And if you've ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their meatloaf is something special: tender, flavorful, topped with a sweet tomato glaze, and served with a generous helping of nostalgia.

Now, you don’t have to hit the highway to enjoy it. This Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf recipe brings all the savory, homestyle flavors of the original right to your kitchen — with simple ingredients and guaranteed comfort in every bite.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍽️ Hearty and filling — a true family-style main course

• 🧅 Loaded with flavor — thanks to onions, cheese, and a tangy glaze

• 🍞 Cracker crumbs instead of breadcrumbs for a Southern twist

• 🕒 Make ahead and freezer-friendly

• 👪 Perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers

---

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 works best)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, but classic)

• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

• Optional: A dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and prep:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the meatloaf:

In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf may become dense.

3. Shape and place:

Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.

4. Make the glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire (if using). Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake:

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and serve:

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it stay juicy and makes slicing easier.

---

What to Serve With Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

• Mashed potatoes and brown gravy

• Buttered green beans or fried okra

• Macaroni and cheese

• Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread

• Coleslaw or cucumber salad for a fresh side

---

Tips for Success

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.

• Don’t skip the resting time — it really helps hold everything together.

• Make it your own: Add a touch of BBQ sauce to the glaze or swap in Italian seasoning for a twist.

---

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

---

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a classic dish done right — and this Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf delivers just that. It’s cozy, familiar, and full of flavor, just like the kind you’d find in a country kitchen. Whether you’re making it for Sunday supper or prepping easy meals for the week, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

Simple, nostalgic, and always satisfying — just the way comfort food should be.