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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
A Southern Comfort Classic You’ll Keep Coming Back To
Introduction and Origin
Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf is an American Southern-style dish that’s gained fame across the country for its comforting, homestyle flavor. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, known for its nostalgic Southern fare, has served this meatloaf for decades — making it a nostalgic staple for families across the U.S.
This meatloaf isn’t just any meatloaf — it’s moist, savory, slightly sweet from the glaze, and loaded with homestyle goodness.
Cultural Significance
In the South, meatloaf is more than just a meal — it’s a family tradition. Passed down through generations, it often features at Sunday dinners, potlucks, and holiday tables. Cracker Barrel’s version has become symbolic of roadside Americana — warm hospitality, affordable comfort food, and consistent flavor.
This dish represents:
- Family bonding over shared meals
- Nostalgia, with flavors that evoke childhood
- American culinary resilience, making the most of humble ingredients
Ingredients and Quantity
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat): 1 ½ lbs
- Onion, finely chopped: ½ cup
- Green bell pepper, finely chopped: ½ cup
- Ritz crackers (crushed): 1 cup (about 20 crackers)
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: ½ cup
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
Glaze Topping:
- Ketchup: ½ cup
- Brown sugar: 2 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tsp
Optional Additions
- Garlic, minced: 1–2 cloves for extra depth
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp for umami richness
- Parsley or thyme: 1 tsp, fresh or dried, for a herby note
- Hot sauce: A dash for heat lovers
- Ground pork or veal: Replace ½ lb of beef for a richer texture
Tips for Success
- Do not overmix the meat; it’ll make the meatloaf tough. Mix just until combined.
- Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to retain juices.
- Line your pan with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
- Use a thermometer: Internal temp should be 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.
- Chill the loaf before baking if it feels too soft to hold its shape.
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, chopped onions, bell peppers, shredded cheese, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently by hand or with a spatula until just combined.
3. Shape the Loaf
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or a baking dish.
4. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
5. Bake
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove, add the remaining glaze, and return to the oven for another 25–30 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Description
Moist and savory, this meatloaf has a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a mild sweetness from the glaze and a cheesy, rich interior. Bits of bell pepper and onion offer a nice bite, and the buttery Ritz crackers bind it all with Southern charm.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 kcal |
| Protein | ~28 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20 g |
| Sugars | ~8 g |
| Total Fat | ~28 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~12 g |
| Cholesterol | ~135 mg |
| Sodium | ~580 mg |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
(Values may vary slightly based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf recipe is a go-to for home cooks looking to bring restaurant-level comfort into their kitchen. It’s simple, deeply satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese for the ultimate Southern supper.
Recommended for:
- Weeknight family dinners
- Potlucks or gatherings
- Meal prepping comfort food
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Yes, meatloaf can be indulgent — but you can easily make it more wholesome without sacrificing comfort:
- Use leaner ground beef or turkey
- Swap crackers for oats or whole grain breadcrumbs
- Reduce cheese slightly or opt for reduced-fat
- Add shredded carrots or zucchini to sneak in veggies
- Serve with steamed vegetables instead of starchy sides
It’s about balance — nourishing your body and soul, one savory bite at a time.
Don’t Lose This Recipe!
Save it, print it, bookmark it, or share it — whatever you do, make sure it stays in your kitchen forever. This is one of those recipes that will become part of your family’s food legacy.
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