Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
There are three main reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe.
First, it’s incredibly moist thanks to the perfect ratio of milk and eggs, creating that tender texture you can’t get from just any meatloaf.
Second, those crushed Ritz crackers? They’re my secret weapon for giving this meatloaf its distinctive, buttery undertone that store-bought breadcrumbs just can’t match.
Finally, that sweet-tangy glaze with brown sugar, ketchup, and a hint of Dijon creates the perfect caramelized crust.
Trust me, even self-proclaimed meatloaf skeptics ask for seconds when I serve this comforting classic.
What Ingredients are in Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?
Creating that perfect, homestyle Cracker Barrel meatloaf really comes down to having the right ingredients on hand. Unlike some fancier recipes that call for hard-to-find components, this classic comfort food relies on simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that work together to create that signature tender texture and rich flavor profile. The magic happens when these everyday ingredients combine—especially those buttery Ritz crackers that give this meatloaf its distinctive character.
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 works best)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but delicious)
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon Halal Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
When shopping for these ingredients, a few tips can elevate your meatloaf even further. The 80/20 ground beef provides the perfect fat content—anything leaner might make your meatloaf dry, while fattier cuts could make it greasy. And don’t skip those Ritz crackers—they’re not just a quirky substitution but the authentic binding agent that gives Cracker Barrel’s version its signature taste. If you’re sensitive to sodium, you might want to use low-sodium versions of the condiments in the glaze, as the combined ingredients already provide plenty of flavor.
How to Make This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Making Cracker Barrel meatloaf at home starts with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your baking dish. You’ll want to either line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking—trust me, there’s nothing more disappointing than a beautiful meatloaf that refuses to come out of the pan intact.
While the oven heats up, grab a large mixing bowl because we’re about to get hands-on with this comfort food classic.
The mixing process is where the magic happens. Combine your 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers (that’s about a sleeve), and add the aromatics—1 medium finely diced onion and ½ cup of finely diced green bell pepper. These vegetables add moisture and flavor without overwhelming the meat.
Next, add your binding ingredients: 2 large eggs and ¾ cup whole milk, which keep everything juicy. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and that optional but game-changing ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Mix everything with clean hands or a wooden spoon, but here’s the essential tip—mix just until combined. Overmixing will make your meatloaf dense and tough rather than tender and moist.
Once your meatloaf mixture is ready, transfer it to your prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
Now for the crowning glory—the glaze that gives Cracker Barrel meatloaf its signature tangy-sweet flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard, and 1 teaspoon Halal Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Spread this glossy mixture over the top of your meatloaf, making sure to cover it completely. Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, which typically takes about an hour.
Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and perfect.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Substitutions and Variations
While the classic Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe delivers nostalgic comfort food at its finest, don’t feel locked into the exact ingredients if you need to make substitutions or want to put your own spin on this dish.
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you’re watching fat content. No Ritz crackers? Regular breadcrumbs work perfectly. I’ve used oats when I’m out of both, and honestly, couldn’t tell the difference.
For dairy-free needs, unsweetened almond milk replaces regular milk nicely. Got bell peppers you hate? Skip them or try grated carrots instead.
The beauty of meatloaf? It’s forgiving. Just keep the moisture-to-meat ratio similar.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
A perfect Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf deserves equally delicious side dishes to round out your meal.
I always pair mine with creamy mashed potatoes and rich brown gravy, which seem made for soaking up that sweet-tangy glaze.
Green beans simmered with bacon bits add that down-home touch, while mac and cheese brings comfort to a whole new level.
Don’t forget the warm, buttery biscuits or cornbread—I’ve been known to make extra just for breakfast the next day.
For something lighter, a crisp side salad with ranch dressing or simple coleslaw cuts through the richness.
Who needs a restaurant when you can recreate the full experience at home?
Final Thoughts
This homestyle Cracker Barrel meatloaf has become my go-to dinner for those nights when nothing but comfort food will do.
There’s something magical about that combination of savory meat, sweet tangy glaze, and the secret ingredient—those buttery Ritz crackers—that makes this recipe truly special.
I love how versatile it is, too. Make it ahead for busy weeknights, double the recipe for leftovers (meatloaf sandwiches, anyone?), or serve it for Sunday dinner with the family.
After making this countless times, I can promise you one thing: this meatloaf never disappoints.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, diced onion, and diced green bell pepper.
- Add eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix with clean hands or a wooden spoon just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer mixture to prepared pan and shape into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Spread glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
