Homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Make Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf at home with this easy recipe. This Cracker Barrel style meatloaf has a soft and tender texture with a rich topping that brings out the classic flavor many families enjoy.

5 from 1 vote

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Course: Main Course

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 1

Standing Time: 15

Total Time: 1 30

Servings: Servings

Calories: 445kcal

Author: Liora

Ingredients

½ tablespoon olive oil
½ cup yellow onion finely chopped
½ cup bell pepper finely chopped
2 pounds 80% lean ground beef
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
2 eggs beaten
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

FOR THE TOPPING

½ to ¾ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Heat the olive oil in a small pan. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, until they are soft. This helps create a smooth texture and mild flavor. Set aside and let them cool.
In a large bowl, add the beaten eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cooked onions, bell peppers, shredded cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Add the ground beef and gently mix until just combined. Do not mix too much, as this helps keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. Using a loaf pan helps the meat hold its shape and cook evenly.
Bake for 30 minutes.
While it is baking, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl and set aside.
After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread the topping over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 30 to 40 minutes. Remove it when the inside reaches 155°F.
Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. During this time, the temperature will rise and the juices will stay inside. Make sure the center reaches 160°F before serving.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes.

Notes

A mix of ground beef, pork, and veal in equal parts can be used for a softer and more flavorful meatloaf. Many grocery stores sell this blend already prepared for meatloaf or meatballs.
Placing slices of bread under the meatloaf can help absorb extra grease while it cooks.
A loaf pan with a removable insert makes it easier to lift the meatloaf out and lets the grease drain away.
Meatloaf may take 15 to 20 extra minutes to cook at higher altitudes. Smaller meatloaves can help reduce cooking time.
This meatloaf works well with mashed potatoes, buttermilk biscuits, and roasted green beans.

Please note that the nutritional values are provided by an online calculator and should be considered as an estimate.

Nutrition