- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Stir in crushed crackers until moistened. - Add chopped onion, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.
- Gently fold in the ground beef until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. - Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf. - Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes.
Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze on top,
and return to bake for another 15 minutes. - Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving and Storage
Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes,
green beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side
for added flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Meatloaf can also be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Use ground beef with some fat for a juicier meatloaf.
- Finely chop vegetables so they blend smoothly into the meat.
- Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to help it hold together.
- Line the pan with foil for easier cleanup.
Variations
Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or Colby Jack to the meat mixture.
Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
BBQ Glaze: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into smaller loaves for quicker cooking.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf remains a beloved classic because it delivers exactly what
comfort food should—simple preparation, familiar flavors, and a satisfying result.
Made at home, it captures the spirit of the restaurant favorite while allowing
flexibility and personalization.
Whether served for a family dinner or saved for leftovers, this meatloaf recipe
is a timeless staple that never goes out of style.
FAQ
Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
This can happen if there aren’t enough binding ingredients like eggs or crackers.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I cook it without a loaf pan?
Yes, shape it free-form on a lined baking sheet.
How do I keep meatloaf moist?
Use milk, avoid overbaking, and choose meat with some fat.
What makes it Cracker Barrel–style?
The tender texture, mild seasoning, and sweet ketchup-based glaze.
