Classic Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – Better Than the Restaurant!

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a true classic that tastes like home?

When comfort food is what you’re craving, nothing satisfies quite like a Classic Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf. 🍽️❤️ It’s the kind of dish that instantly brings warmth to the table and memories to the heart—simple, hearty, and made with love. On chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or slow Sunday dinners, this meatloaf delivers that familiar, cozy feeling we all need from time to time.

What makes this version better than the restaurant is the care you put into every step. The balance of tender ground beef, savory seasonings, finely chopped vegetables, and that irresistible sweet-and-tangy glaze creates a meatloaf that’s moist, flavorful, and never dry. Unlike rushed diner versions, this homemade recipe lets each ingredient shine, coming together in a way that feels both traditional and deeply satisfying.

This meatloaf is not fancy—and that’s exactly the point. It’s honest food, made to nourish and comfort. Served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttery corn, it becomes a meal that slows everyone down and invites them to enjoy the moment. Even leftovers taste better the next day, tucked into a sandwich or reheated for an easy lunch. 😌

So tie on your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to make a timeless favorite that proves simple food, when done right, will always win. Let’s cook a meatloaf that feels like Sunday dinner any day of the week.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup crushed Ritz-style crackers
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Signature Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and green bell pepper. Keep the vegetables finely chopped so they blend smoothly into the meatloaf and help keep it moist.
3. Add the crushed crackers to the bowl. These act as the binder, giving the meatloaf its classic tender texture while absorbing flavor.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meat mixture.
5. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These simple seasonings are key to that familiar, comforting flavor.
6. Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, gently mix everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.
7. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently and shape the top evenly without packing it down too tightly.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. This sweet and tangy glaze is what gives the meatloaf its signature Cracker Barrel–style finish.
9. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
10. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
11. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze evenly over the top.
12. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for another 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
13. Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and cleaner.
14. Slice thick and serve warm with your favorite comfort-food sides. Enjoy every tender, flavorful bite. 😍

Nutritional Information

This classic meatloaf is hearty, filling, and designed to satisfy. Made with simple pantry staples, it provides a good balance of protein and comfort while still feeling like a special meal. Enjoy it mindfully, and don’t forget—leftovers are part of the magic.

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 75 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 95 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~480
🍽️ Servings: 8

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!