Ah, a Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf — that’s comfort food at its finest! 🍴 Here’s a recipe inspired by the classic, with a tender, flavorful loaf and sweet glaze just like the restaurant.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for richness)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan. - Soak breadcrumbs
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk, let sit 5 minutes until softened. - Mix meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, cheese (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf can be tough. - Shape loaf
Form mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet or in a loaf pan. - Prepare glaze
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Spread half over the top of the meatloaf. - Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes. Spread the remaining glaze over the loaf in the last 10 minutes of baking. - Rest and serve
Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and easy to cut.
Tips for Perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Cheese inside: Add cheddar for a richer, creamier texture.
- Veggie boost: Finely chopped bell peppers or carrots can be mixed in.
- Sweet & tangy glaze: Adjust brown sugar and mustard to your taste.
- Juicy meatloaf: Don’t skip the milk-soaked breadcrumbs — they help retain moisture.
If you want, I can also give a shortcut version that uses a pantry-friendly glaze and no loaf pan, perfect for weeknight dinners that still taste like Cracker Barrel.
Do you want me to do that?
