Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Description
Bring the comforting flavors of your favorite country restaurant home with this Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf! Made with juicy ground beef, buttery Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, onions, and a sweet-and-tangy glaze, this tender meatloaf is packed with flavor and incredibly moist. It’s the perfect family dinner served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅔ cup milk
- 32 Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Eggs
- Milk
- Crushed Ritz crackers
- Chopped onion
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Ketchup
- Brown sugar
- Yellow mustard
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or your favorite country-style sides.
Notes
- Ritz crackers help create a tender, moist texture.
- Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but mild cheddar works well too.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps it hold together.
Tips
✅ Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
✅ Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
✅ For easy cleanup, bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
✅ Leftovers make fantastic meatloaf sandwiches.
Servings
Serves: 6–8
Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Rest Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
Benefits
- ✔ Tender and juicy every time
- ✔ High in protein
- ✔ Family-friendly comfort food
- ✔ Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
- ✔ Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- ✔ Great for hearty weeknight dinners
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey works well, though the meatloaf will be slightly leaner. Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil for extra moisture.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. Freeze either unbaked or fully cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Q: Why are Ritz crackers used instead of breadcrumbs?
A: Ritz crackers add a rich, buttery flavor and help keep the meatloaf exceptionally moist and tender.
Q: What sides go best with this meatloaf?
A: Mashed potatoes, green beans, glazed carrots, corn, macaroni and cheese, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad are all excellent choices.