Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: Captures the taste of Cracker Barrel’s signature meatloaf.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples for easy preparation.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various side dishes, making it suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
- 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1½ sleeves)
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½–¾ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Set aside.
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the meatloaf once it’s baked.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together the eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, diced onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Incorporate the Ground Beef:
- Add the lean ground beef to the mixture and gently combine, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape and Bake:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Apply the Topping:
- After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the prepared ketchup-brown sugar topping over the surface.
- Continue Baking:
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Once fully cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Serves 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf:
- Substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
- Vegetable Addition:
- Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick:
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat.
- Herb-Infused:
- Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
- Cheese Variation:
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration:
- Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing:
- Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen meatloaf can last for up to 2–3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating:
- To reheat refrigerated meatloaf, slice it and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. For frozen meatloaf, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat slices directly from frozen by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker or breadcrumb?
Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with other buttery crackers or breadcrumbs, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Is the bell pepper necessary?
No, the bell pepper is optional and can be omitted if preferred.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
What can I serve with this meatloaf?
Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables complement this meatloaf well.
Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled meatloaf before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
How can I prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dry?
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and ensure not to overbake. Adding the topping halfway through cooking
Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf
This Cracker Barrel Copycat Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish made with ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, and a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze. Moist, tender, and packed with rich flavors, this meatloaf is perfect for family dinners and pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
- 48 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1½ sleeves)
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ½–¾ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Set aside.
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a loaf pan for easy removal.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix eggs, crushed crackers, cheese, milk, diced onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add Ground Beef:
- Gently fold in ground beef without overmixing to keep it tender.
- Shape & Bake:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Add the Glaze & Finish Baking:
- Spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
- Rest & Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey for beef.
- For extra moisture, add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce to the mix.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
