Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe

March 14, 2025

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The primary time I tasted Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf, I used to be transported again to Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s farmhouse desk. There’s one thing about that completely seasoned, hearty slice topped with tangy glaze that seems like a heat hug on a plate. After years of experimenting to recreate that taste and texture at residence, I’m thrilled to share this genuine copycat recipe.

Copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf slices on a plate in front of the meatloaf.

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In contrast to many imitations floating across the web, this recipe stays true to the unique—no cheese or fancy substances required. Simply sincere, easy consolation meals that brings the entire household to the desk with smiles. Whether or not you’re a longtime Cracker Barrel fan or just craving a basic American meal, this meatloaf recipe deserves a particular place in your recipe assortment.

What Makes This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe Particular?

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf has earned its legendary standing for good purpose. Every slice delivers the right stability of hearty meat, savory greens, and that signature tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes on high. The feel is excellent—agency sufficient to carry its form when sliced but tender and moist with every chew.

What really units this copycat recipe aside is its authenticity. Many recipes incorrectly add cheese, however the actual Cracker Barrel meatloaf doesn’t comprise any. This recipe stays true to the restaurant model, utilizing Ritz crackers as a substitute of breadcrumbs for a buttery taste and very best texture that breadcrumbs merely can’t ship.

Tools Wanted

Measuring cups and spoons
Massive mixing bowl
Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Meat thermometer
Small bowl for mixing glaze

ketchup, brown sugar and more to make a meatloaf glaze

Substances

For the Meatloaf:

Floor chuck – Offers wealthy taste and the right fats content material for moist, flavorful meatloaf
Massive eggs – Act as a binder to carry the meatloaf collectively whereas including moisture
Ritz crackers – Supply a buttery taste and lighter texture than conventional breadcrumbs
White onion – Provides pure sweetness and fragrant taste all through the meatloaf
Inexperienced bell pepper – Contributes contemporary taste, coloration, and refined crunch
Milk – Helps soften the cracker crumbs and provides moisture to the combination
Diced tomatoes – Present bursts of juicy taste and assist hold the meatloaf moist
Salt – Enhances all of the flavors within the meatloaf
Floor black pepper – Provides a delicate warming spice with out overpowering

For the Glaze:

Ketchup – Types the bottom of the tangy, candy topping
Brown sugar – Creates caramelization and balances the acidity of the ketchup
Yellow mustard – Provides tanginess and depth to the glaze
Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami and complexity to the sweet-tangy topping

ground beef, onions, green bell pepper and more to make meatloaf

Find out how to Make Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 350 levels.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, cooking spray, or aluminum foil; this ready baking sheet will make cleansing a breeze.
In a big bowl, beat the eggs effectively, then add cracker crumbs, onion, inexperienced pepper, milk, salt, drained diced tomatoes, and floor black pepper. Combine effectively.
Add floor beef and blend effectively. Prove the meatloaf combination right into a loaf pan.
Place meatloaf into the preheated oven. Bake for half-hour.
In a small bowl, put together the scrumptious glaze by combining ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Unfold glaze over meatloaf and cook dinner for one more half-hour or till the middle has an inner temperature of 160 levels. You may test the temperature with a meat thermometer.
Take away from oven and let it relaxation for about 5 minutes earlier than serving.

Copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf on a plate and the meatloaf behind it.

Tips about Find out how to Prepare dinner and Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Be mild with the meat. Squeezing floor beef is a superb technique to do away with stress, however it is going to additionally break the feel of the meatloaf. Resist the urge to over-mix, and use simply the guidelines of your fingers if you mix the substances.
Fats is your pal on this Southern meatloaf recipe. Sure, you can also make meatloaf with floor turkey or lean beef, however when you accomplish that, it is best to anticipate a dry meatloaf. For the most effective taste, use 80 p.c lean floor beef. You may generally discover it labeled as a floor chuck on the packaging.
Get the suitable grind. Most grocery shops promote just one measurement of floor beef. Get it. Don’t fear. Your meatloaf will prove simply high quality. However, if you’re fortunate sufficient to purchase meat the place the butcher will grind it contemporary, ask for a rough grind.
Leftovers make an incredible sandwich! If in case you have a little bit of meatloaf leftover, chilly meatloaf sandwiches are a should. Serve a chilly slice between toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and additional glaze. It’s so scrumptious you’ll want to make leftovers on objective!

What to Serve with Meatloaf

You might surprise what it is best to serve with a scrumptious do-it-yourself meatloaf. One phrase: Potatoes. Listed here are some potato aspect dishes that may work effectively along with your meatloaf.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Permit leftover meatloaf to chill utterly, then retailer in an hermetic container within the fridge for as much as 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for as much as 3 months. For greatest outcomes, slice earlier than freezing for simpler portioning later.

Reheating:

Skillet technique (for crispy edges): Soften a small quantity of butter in a skillet over medium warmth. Add meatloaf slices and warmth for 2-3 minutes per aspect.
Oven technique (greatest for sustaining texture): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet, cowl with foil, and warmth for 15-20 minutes till warmed by.
Microwave technique (quickest): Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cowl with a moist paper towel, and warmth for 1-2 minutes or till sizzling.