Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe (with Video)

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comfort food classic that has become a household favorite for its rich flavors and hearty texture. It’s the kind of dish that takes you back to simpler times, evoking memories of family dinners around the table.

Recreating this iconic recipe at home is easier than you might think, and with this guide, you’ll have a loaf that’s just as good—if not better—than what you find at the restaurant.

Ingredients Needed

To make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

Substitution Tips:

• Use ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Swap Ritz crackers for breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives.

Essential Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls of varying sizes
• A sturdy loaf pan or baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A spatula or mixing spoon
• Aluminum foil (optional for covering)

Optional but Helpful:

• Food processor for finely chopping vegetables
• Digital meat thermometer for precise cooking

Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. Dice the Vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onions and green bell peppers. This ensures they distribute evenly in the meat mixture and cook thoroughly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, vegetables, eggs, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spatula. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the crackers absorb the moisture, binding the ingredients together.

Pro Tip: Use chilled meat to make handling easier and maintain the loaf’s shape.

Shaping the Meatloaf

1. Transfer to the Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan or directly on the sheet.
2. Smooth the Surface: Use a spatula or your hands to smooth the top. This step ensures the glaze adheres evenly.
3. Optional Step: Some cooks prefer to line the pan with foil for easier cleanup.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Avoid compacting the meat mixture too tightly; this can make the meatloaf tough.

Creating the Iconic Cracker Barrel Glaze

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
2. Apply the First Layer: Brush half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the rest for later.

Flavor Tip: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze for a smoky twist.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat fully.
2. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf in the center rack and bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
3. Add More Glaze: Remove the meatloaf, brush with the remaining glaze, and return it to the oven for another 15-20 minutes.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Pro Tip: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and makes cutting easier.

Tips for Serving Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many side dishes. To make your meal truly special:

1. Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a traditional Southern-inspired spread.
2. Healthier Options: Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed broccoli for a lighter meal.
3. Sauce on the Side: Keep a small bowl of extra glaze for dipping. It adds a tangy burst of flavor to every bite.

Presentation Tip: Garnish the meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of the reserved glaze for a polished look.

Storage and Reheating

1. Refrigeration: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: Wrap individual slices in foil or place the entire loaf in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Microwaving is faster but may slightly dry out the texture.

Pro Tip: Add a small splash of water or broth when reheating to retain moisture.

Customizing the Recipe

1. Gluten-Free Option: Swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
2. Keto-Friendly Version: Replace crackers with almond flour and use sugar-free ketchup in the glaze.
3. Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the ground meat with a mix of lentils and finely chopped mushrooms.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the glaze for a fiery touch.

Experimentation Tip: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs, spices, or veggies to make the recipe your own.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Overmixing the Meat: This leads to a dense texture. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
2. Skipping the Resting Time: Resting the cooked meatloaf ensures it holds its shape when sliced.
3. Uneven Cooking: Use a loaf pan or shape the meat evenly to prevent uneven cooking.
4. Burning the Glaze: Cover the meatloaf with foil if the glaze starts to brown too quickly.

Pro Tip: Always check the internal temperature for perfect doneness.

FAQs about Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe?

To make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, you’ll need ground beef, diced onions, diced bell peppers, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, and seasoning. For the exact measurements and additional ingredients like the ketchup-based glaze, please refer to a detailed recipe online.

2. How long does it take to cook Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Typically, the meatloaf needs to bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 hour. This duration can slightly vary depending on the size of your loaf and the specifics of your oven.

3. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before you plan to bake it. This can help enhance the flavors.

4. Are there any tips for making the meatloaf moist?

To ensure your meatloaf stays moist, avoid overmixing the meat. Also, adding components like eggs and milk helps retain moisture during the cooking process.

5. Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Keep in mind that these meats are leaner, which might affect the moistness, so consider adjusting the amount of wet ingredients.

6. What sides go well with Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf perfectly, delivering a comforting, hearty meal.

7. How do I store leftover meatloaf?

Leftover meatloaf should be cooled, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically keeps well for 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices for up to a month for easy future meals.

8. Is Cracker Barrel Meatloaf gluten-free?

The traditional recipe includes crushed Ritz crackers, which contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with your favorite gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a nostalgic, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy night at home. This recipe makes it easy to recreate the restaurant-quality loaf in your kitchen, with options to customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful meatloaf every time.