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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This homestyle Cracker Barrel meatloaf is incredibly moist and full of flavor, thanks to a perfect blend of milk, eggs, and crushed Ritz crackers. Topped with a tangy-sweet glaze, it makes for a comforting classic that’s perfect for a family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Mixture
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 works best
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers about 1 sleeve
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper finely diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional but delicious
Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup for glaze
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar for glaze
  • 1 tablespoon mustard Dijon or yellow, for glaze
  • 1 teaspoon Halal Worcestershire sauce for glaze

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly oiling it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, diced onion, and diced green bell pepper.
  3. Add the eggs and whole milk, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Halal Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze.
  6. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 60 minutes.
  8. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.
  9. Serve with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or a fresh side salad.

Notes

This homestyle Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a comforting classic known for its moist texture and delightful flavor. The unique addition of crushed Ritz crackers provides a buttery note that sets it apart, while the sweet-tangy glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Feel free to experiment with substitutions like ground turkey, or adjust the glaze ingredients to suit your taste. Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures every bite remains juicy and delicious, and leftovers make for excellent sandwiches the next day.