Description

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is a comforting classic that brings the flavors of home right to your dinner table. Combining lean ground beef with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a sweet-savory glaze, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this meatloaf is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 small finely diced onion
1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)
48 Ritz crackers, crushed
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese
3 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze: 1/2-3/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, crushed crackers, cheese, milk, onion, bell pepper (if using), salt, and pepper; mix until well combined.
Add in ground beef and gently mix until just combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
Spread the glaze over the meatloaf and continue baking for an additional 30 to 40 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 155°F.
Allow to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
Calories: 325
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped carrots or celery to the mixture. Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef without sacrificing taste. Letting the meatloaf rest helps retain moisture and improves texture.