Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – The Ultimate Homestyle
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a hearty Southern comfort food made with lean ground beef, crushed buttery crackers, cheddar cheese, onions, bell peppers, eggs, and milk. Everything is mixed together and shaped into a loaf before being topped with a sweet tomato glaze. As it bakes, the glaze caramelizes while the meat stays incredibly juicy and flavorful. The result is a tender, cheesy, family-friendly dinner that's perfect for weeknight meals, Sunday gatherings, or meal prep. Serve it with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, green beans, or roasted vegetables for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (Ritz-style)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- ½ cup finely diced green bell pepper
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Tomato Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, cracker crumbs, cheddar cheese, onion, bell pepper, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and bake another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or mac and cheese.
Notes
- Use 80/20 beef for maximum flavor.
- Ritz crackers create a softer texture than breadcrumbs.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Dice vegetables finely for even cooking.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing.
- A meat thermometer prevents overcooking.
- Bake on a sheet pan if you prefer crispier edges.
- Leftovers make delicious sandwiches.