Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr 10 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 25 mins
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Servings
8
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Calories
407 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Description
The ground beef base is mixed with diced vegetables and sharp cheddar for added flavor and moisture, while crushed Ritz crackers act as a binder, absorbing juices and keeping the meatloaf tender. Eggs and milk contribute additional moisture and binding quality, supporting a cohesive but soft texture. Seasonings of salt and pepper are balanced to taste.
Baking starts with forming the loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan to hold shape. A partial bake allows the loaf to firm before applying the glaze. The ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard glaze is spread evenly and the loaf is returned to the oven to finish cooking, resulting in a caramelized, sweet-savory topping.
The meatloaf is fully cooked to 165°F internally and should rest before slicing to redistribute moisture, ensuring juicy slices. This dish is well-suited for traditional suppers paired with classic sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Care is taken not to overmix the meat mixture to avoid dryness. Finely mincing vegetables using a food processor can improve texture uniformity. Using an instant-read thermometer ensures accurate doneness rather than relying solely on cook time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 onion diced
- green pepper diced
- 1 1/2 Ritz crackers crushed, sleeves
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese shredded sharp
- 3 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze Ingredients
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, cheese, milk, salt and black pepper.
- Mix well until everything is combined.
- On a foil lined baking sheet form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape. Or place it in a loaf pan if you prefer.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- While it bakes combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the ketchup glaze all over the top of the meatloaf.
- Pop back in the oven and cook for another 40 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to make sure it has reached 165 degree F internally.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice and serve!
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- To achieve finely diced vegetables, use a food processor to mince onion and green pepper uniformly.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, rather than relying on time alone.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 407 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 407kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 29g | 45% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 154mg | 51% |
| Sodium | 686mg | 29% |
| Potassium | 441mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 0.3g | 1% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 337IU | 7% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 133mg | 13% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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