🍴 Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe
This classic meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet glaze that makes it irresistible. Perfect for family dinners!
🛒 Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- ½ cup onion, diced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- ⅔ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ketchup
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan (or use a foil tray like the picture).
- Mix the meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, diced green pepper, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and 1 tbsp ketchup.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined (do not overmix to keep it tender).
- Shape & bake:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes.
- Prepare glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup ketchup, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp mustard until smooth.
- Top & finish baking:
- Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest & serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.
🌟 Tips
- Swap Ritz crackers with saltines or breadcrumbs if needed.
- Add shredded cheese into the mixture for extra richness.
- For a bit of spice, mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.