Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf is known for being ultra-moist, packed with flavor, and topped with a signature ketchup-brown sugar glaze. The secret? Ritz crackers and shredded cheese baked right into the meat mixture. This homemade version is just like the real thing — and maybe even better.
⏱ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 55–65 minutes
- Rest time: 10 minutes
- Total time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
🥘 Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (9×5″) or baking sheet
- Mixing spoon or hands
- Oven
🧂 Ingredients
Meatloaf
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20) | 2 lbs (900g) | Leaner meat can dry out |
| Ritz crackers | 1 sleeve (about 35 crackers) | Crushed |
| Eggs | 3 large | Helps bind the loaf |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Medium or sharp cheddar |
| Onion | 1 small, finely diced | Sauté first for milder flavor (optional) |
| Milk | ½ cup | Adds moisture |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Or to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Optional |
| Bell pepper (optional) | ½ small, finely diced | Adds color & flavor |
Glaze
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Yellow mustard | 1 tbsp |
🔪 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
2. Prepare meatloaf mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Crushed Ritz crackers
- Eggs
- Milk
- Shredded cheese
- Onion and bell pepper
- Salt & pepper
Mix briefly, then add ground beef and gently combine until just mixed (don’t overwork it).
3. Shape & place in pan
Transfer mixture to prepared loaf pan or form a free-form loaf on a baking sheet. Pat it into shape evenly.
4. Make the glaze
Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread half the glaze on the meatloaf before baking.
5. Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
At the 40-minute mark, spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and finish baking.
6. Rest & serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Est. 1 of 8)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~360 |
| Protein | ~23g |
| Fat | ~22g |
| Carbs | ~14g |
| Sugar | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Will vary depending on cheese and glaze quantity used.
💡 Tips & Variations
✅ Tips
- Crush crackers finely: Use a food processor or crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
- Sauté onions/peppers: For softer texture and milder flavor.
- Use a thermometer: Don’t guess! Cook to 160°F internal temp.
🔄 Variations
Freezer-friendly: Freeze unbaked or fully baked and cooled slices — wrap tightly!
Mini meatloaves: Shape into muffin tin servings and bake ~25 mins.
BBQ glaze: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce.
Cheese mix: Try Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for variation.
