Name: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ tablespoon olive oil; ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced; 2 pounds 80% lean ground beef; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers; 2 eggs, whisked; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. black pepper; 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp. brown sugar; 1 tsp. yellow mustard

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 20 reviews

If you’ve ever savored that tender, smoky-sweet slice of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) and dreamed of making it from your own kitchen, today’s your day! This legendary comfort food captures everything iconic about the original: the juicy mix of beef, creamy melted cheddar, tangy bell peppers, and that irresistible brown sugar glaze. With this copycat recipe, you can expect the same mouthwatering aroma and flavor that draws families together, all while skipping the trip to the restaurant. Trust me—once you try this at home, you’ll want to put it on your regular dinner rotation!

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cozy dish relies on simple pantry staples paired with a few fresh favorites. Each ingredient steps up to create amazing texture, color, and mouthwatering flavor in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love using them:

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the vegetables sauté into a soft, sweet base instead of staying crunchy.
Yellow onion, finely diced: Brings savory warmth and a tender bite to the meatloaf.
Bell pepper, finely diced: Infuses a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
80% lean ground beef (or a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal): Provides the juicy, classic meatloaf texture (feel free to use that “meatloaf mix” for even richer results!).
Crushed Ritz crackers: The secret to that buttery, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that sets this apart—skip breadcrumbs for that copycat magic.
Eggs, whisked: Bind everything together so your loaf slices beautifully.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into creamy pockets throughout the loaf and pumps up the flavor.
Whole milk: Adds moisture, ensuring the meatloaf is never dry.
Salt and black pepper: Essentials that draw out every savory note in your loaf.
Ketchup: The foundation of that classic tangy-sweet topping.
Brown sugar: Helps the glaze caramelize beautifully and gives a touch of molasses richness.
Yellow mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by softening your onion and bell pepper in a splash of olive oil. This extra step draws out their sweetness and ensures they’re perfectly tender—no raw crunch in your finished loaf. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until everything is fragrant and golden, then set aside to cool a little before mixing into the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooled veggies, whisked eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar, milk, and a dash each of salt and pepper. Gently fold in your ground beef (or the classic “meatloaf mix” for even more flavor). The key is to mix just until combined—overworking can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Loaf

Transfer the seasoned meat mixture into a loaf pan and gently shape it into a smooth, even loaf. Using a loaf pan not only helps the meatloaf hold its classic shape, but it also keeps it moist and easy to slice later. Pop the pan into a preheated oven at 350 degrees F and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Mix and Apply the Sweet Topping

While your loaf gets started in the oven, stir together the topping: ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. After the first 30 minutes of baking, pull out the loaf and brush this luscious glaze all over the top. Slide it back in for another 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 155 degrees F (it’ll keep rising as it rests!).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) hits temp, take it out, but don’t touch it yet! Let it rest in the pan for about 15 minutes. This crucial pause gives the juices time to settle—making every slice fork-tender and extra juicy. Check that the center has reached 160 degrees F before serving, then slice thick and enjoy!

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat)

Garnishes

The final flourish matters! Sprinkle your meatloaf slices with a little chopped fresh parsley for a pop of fresh color, or try a pinch of extra shredded cheddar for melty goodness. Even a little extra drizzle of the glaze works wonders when serving.

Side Dishes

This classic pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy buttermilk biscuits, or a side of roasted green beans. For old-school Southern comfort, a heap of buttery corn kernels or a serving of tangy coleslaw completes the meal. It’s the kind of comfort food that invites piling it high!

Creative Ways to Present

Transform leftovers into hearty meatloaf sandwiches with thick bread and pickle slices, or cube up pieces to toss into a salad for a protein punch. Want to wow your brunch crowd? Try topping slices with a fried or poached egg for a savory twist—they’ll think you ran a diner!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) cool completely before wrapping leftovers tightly in foil or sealing in an airtight container. Stored this way, it’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, and it’s delicious cold or reheated for easy weeknight meals.

Freezing

This meatloaf is perfect for meal-prepping! Just slice, layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and pop into a freezer-safe bag. The loaf will keep its flavor and tenderness for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the freshest flavor, reheat slices in the oven at 325 degrees F, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave for a quick lunch—just use a lower power setting to keep it juicy. A brush of fresh ketchup helps revive the glaze, making leftovers taste just-baked.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work in this recipe, though your meatloaf may be a bit lighter in flavor. Consider adding a splash of extra milk and a little more cheddar to boost juiciness and flavor.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

No Ritz crackers? No problem! Substitute an equal amount of plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, or even panko. Ritz just add that buttery richness, but the recipe is very forgiving.

How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?

Proper binding is the key. Make sure to use the full amount of eggs and crushed crackers, and don’t skip letting the loaf rest after baking—this lets it firm up so slices stay perfectly together.

Can I prep Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble the loaf up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats before popping it in for dinner.

What’s the best way to tell if meatloaf is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer and check for 155 degrees in the center; after resting, it will reach a safe and juicy 160 degrees. The glaze will bubble, and the loaf should feel firm but not dry when lightly pressed.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing better than the nostalgic comfort of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (Copycat) made right at home. With this recipe, you’ll get not just a taste of your favorite roadside classic but a new family tradition everyone will rave about. Fire up your oven and treat yourself to a dish that’s just as welcoming as the real thing!