Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

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Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf

Description

This Cracker Barrel–inspired meatloaf is tender, savory, and slightly sweet with a rich tomato glaze on top. Crushed Ritz crackers keep it moist, while onions and bell peppers add classic Southern flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or make-ahead meals.

🛒 Ingredients

Meatloaf

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 preferred)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • ½ cup green bell pepper, finely diced (optional)

  • 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 48 crackers)

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp black pepper

Glaze

  • ¾ cup ketchup

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

  3. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

  4. Shape mixture into one large loaf or divide into two smaller loaves.

  5. Place in a greased loaf pan or foil pan.

  6. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.

  7. Spread glaze evenly over the top.

  8. Bake uncovered for:

    • 60–70 minutes (single large loaf), or

    • 45–50 minutes (two smaller loaves)

  9. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

  10. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

📝 Recipe Notes

  • Ritz crackers provide moisture and a buttery flavor—breadcrumbs won’t taste the same.

  • Bell peppers are optional but authentic to the Cracker Barrel style.

  • Foil pans are great for meal prep and freezing.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness.

  • Finely dice vegetables so the loaf holds together.

  • Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.

  • For extra glaze lovers, reserve half and add during the last 10 minutes.

🍽️ Servings

  • 8–10 servings

  • Serving size: ~1 thick slice

🧮 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 390

  • Protein: 28g

  • Fat: 24g

  • Carbohydrates: 15g

  • Sugar: 7g

  • Sodium: 620mg

(Values vary based on beef fat content and portion size.)

🌿 Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle and satiety

  • Comfort food that’s family-friendly

  • Great for leftovers, sandwiches, or freezing

  • Customizable with vegetables or leaner meats

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes! Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I substitute crackers?
You can use saltines or breadcrumbs, but Ritz gives the best flavor and moisture.

Q: Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, but add 1–2 tbsp olive oil or extra milk to prevent dryness.

Q: Why is my meatloaf dry?
Overmixing or using meat that’s too lean (90/10) is usually the cause

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