Introduction
If you’ve ever eaten at Cracker Barrel, you probably know how good their meatloaf tastes. It’s one of their most loved comfort foods—warm, flavorful, and filling. But what if you could make the same delicious meatloaf right at home?
Good news—you can! This homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe tastes just like the one at the restaurant. It uses everyday ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this meatloaf is a great choice. Let’s break it down step-by-step so anyone—even a beginner—can follow along!
Ingredients – Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean is best)
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Step-by-Step Process – Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Now, let’s walk through the cooking process in easy steps.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure the oven is hot and ready when you’re done mixing the meatloaf.
Step 2: Prepare a Baking Dish
Use a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the following:
- Ground beef
- Eggs
- Chopped onions
- Chopped green bell pepper
- Crushed Ritz crackers
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Salt and pepper
Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything well. Make sure all the ingredients are combined evenly, but don’t overmix. That can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Place the meat mixture into the loaf pan or shape it into a loaf by hand on the baking sheet. Press it down slightly to hold the shape.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Topping
While the meatloaf bakes, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. After the first 30 minutes, take the meatloaf out and spread the topping evenly over it.
Put it back in the oven and bake for another 30 minutes (total baking time: about 1 hour).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once done, take it out and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle and keeps the meatloaf moist.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
| Cholesterol | 115mg |
| Calcium | 120mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a leaner option. Just know the flavor might be a little different and slightly less rich.
Q2: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use saltine crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes. The crackers help bind the meat together.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just bring it to room temperature first.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q5: What should I serve with meatloaf?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or buttered corn. A side salad also works great for a lighter touch.
Final Thoughts
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is the kind of meal that brings people together. It’s warm, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients that you can easily find at home. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or making a cozy meal on the weekend, this recipe is a winner.
Even if you’re new to cooking, don’t worry. The steps are easy to follow, and the result is a tasty, homemade dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Give it a try—and enjoy every bite!
