Here’s a hearty, homestyle Cracker Barrel-style Meatloaf recipe — moist, savory, and topped with a sweet tomato glaze just like the classic you get at the restaurant. It’s comfort food at its finest!
🍽️ Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat Recipe)
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 60–70 min
Total Time: ~1 hour 20 min
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
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1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 works best)
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½ lb ground pork (optional, or use 100% beef)
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1 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers (or saltines)
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½ cup finely chopped onion
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¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
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2 large eggs, lightly beaten
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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¼ cup brown sugar
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1 tsp yellow mustard
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Optional: dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce for depth
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
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Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or baking dish.
2. Mix the Meatloaf:
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In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients.
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Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined — don’t overmix.
3. Form and Bake:
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Press mixture into the loaf pan or form a freeform loaf in a baking dish.
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Bake for 30 minutes uncovered.
4. Add the Glaze:
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While baking, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
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After 30 minutes, spread glaze over top of the meatloaf.
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Return to oven and bake another 30–40 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest & Serve:
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese for full Cracker Barrel vibes.
🧀 Optional Add-ins for Flavor Boost:
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce in the meat mixture
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A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a little kick
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Swap cheddar for Colby or pepper jack for variation
Would you like a mini meatloaf muffin version, freezer-friendly prep, or a lower-fat alternative? Just let me know!
