Can I make the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes! Mix and shape the loaf up to a day ahead, cover tightly in the fridge, and bake when ready. Let it sit at room temp for 20 minutes before baking for the best texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a lighter meatloaf—just add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk to keep it moist since turkey is leaner.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

No problem. Any buttery cracker or even plain breadcrumbs will work. Ritz adds extra richness, but this recipe is forgiving.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

A meat thermometer is your best friend here: Look for an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have one, the loaf should be firm, piping hot, and juices should run clear.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 eggs, room temperature; 2/3 cup whole milk; 25 Ritz crackers, crushed; 1 large onion, diced; 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. pepper; 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp. mustard

Sink your fork into this comforting classic—Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, a dinnertime gem inspired by the beloved roadside restaurant. This recipe delivers everything you crave for an easy, hearty meal: a tender, flavorful meatloaf packed with savory bits of cheddar and crackery goodness, finished under a sweet-tangy glaze. It all comes together in just over an hour with barely any prep, making this the perfect answer for those “what’s for dinner?” evenings. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just want a taste of Southern comfort without a lot of fuss, you’re going to love how effortless—and delicious—meatloaf night can be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Minimal chopping, quick mixing, and a straightforward bake mean you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner.
Rich, Classic Flavors: Savory, slightly sweet, with a cheesy twist that makes each bite extra special—this meatloaf hits all the right notes.
Perfect Texture: Thanks to crushed Ritz crackers and just the right blend of ingredients, the loaf turns out incredibly moist yet sturdy enough to slice.
Family Friendly: The combination of a mellow, kid-approved topping and classic flavors ensure everyone heads back for seconds.
Great for Make-Ahead: Enjoy for dinner and easily reheat for lunches or quick weeknight leftovers—this meatloaf is even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather up these simple, pantry-friendly staples for a meatloaf you won’t forget:

Eggs: Help bind everything together for a loaf that holds its shape.
Whole Milk: Adds tenderness and moisture throughout.
Ritz Crackers: Choose these buttery crackers for the best rich, slightly salty backdrop. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers.
Onion: Diced for a savory lift and mild sweetness. If you’re not an onion fan, try grated carrot instead!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp for big flavor in every bite—mild just isn’t the same!
Salt & Pepper: Season to perfection; simple, classic, and essential.
Ground Beef: The main event—opt for 80/20 beef for juicy, flavorful results.
Ketchup: The base for that beloved tangy-sweet glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a gentle caramel note to the topping.
Mustard: Balances out the sweetness with a little bite.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Meatloaf is meant to be personalized. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Sub half the ground beef for ground pork or turkey for a twist on flavor and texture.
Add Veggies: Finely chop bell pepper, carrot, or celery and stir into the meat mixture for extra nutrition and color.
Cracker Alternatives: Use saltines, breadcrumbs, or panko if Ritz aren’t handy, but don’t skip them—they add so much buttery flavor!
Different Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a subtle nutty note.
Glaze Upgrade: Add a splash of Worcestershire or hot sauce to the ketchup glaze for extra zing.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they’re combined and foamy—this gives the meatloaf a lighter texture.

Step 2: Mix in Moisture and Crunch

Stir in the milk and crushed Ritz crackers to the beaten eggs. Let this sit for a minute so the crackers soak up some liquid—that’s the secret to extra tenderness.

Step 3: Flavor Boost

Add your diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture and stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Beef

Drop the ground beef into the bowl. Using clean hands, gently combine everything. Don’t overmix—just fold until the mixture holds together without being packed tight.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Spray an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick spray. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf (press gently, don’t pack). Pop it in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until almost done.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the loaf bakes, whip up your glaze: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze—Twice!

After 30 minutes in the oven, pour half of the glaze over the top and spread evenly. Return to bake for 15 more minutes. Repeat with the remaining glaze, then bake a final 15 minutes until bubbling and caramelized.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle and makes dense, perfect slices.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mixing just until combined keeps the loaf tender. Squeeze and fold, don’t mash or knead.
Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf sit after baking locks in the juices.
Shred Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese can be dry—shred your own for the best melt and flavor.
Crush Crackers by Hand: A rolling pin or just your hands work fine, and a coarse crumb gives nice texture.
Baking Dish Matters: Don’t use a loaf pan—the flat 8×8 dish encourages more glaze caramelization and gets more crust on each slice.

How to Serve

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a meal in itself, but it really shines with classic sides. Some ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are a must-have for catching all that extra glaze.
Green Beans or Peas: Crisp green veggies balance the richness perfectly.
Buttered Corn or Rolls: Simple, buttery corn or fluffy rolls for extra comfort.
Top with Parsley: For a little color and a hint of fresh flavor.

Slice leftovers for next-day meatloaf sandwiches, topped with a little extra glaze and crisp lettuce for a true diner classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftovers, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Meatloaf slices best once chilled, so it’s perfect for sandwiches!

Freezing

Freeze baked (and cooled) meatloaf, whole or sliced, wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag. Keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Microwave slices on medium until heated through or warm gently in a 300°F oven, covered with foil. Add a little extra ketchup if it needs revitalizing.

FAQs

Can I make the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes! Mix and shape the loaf up to a day ahead, cover tightly in the fridge, and bake when ready. Let it sit at room temp for 20 minutes before baking for the best texture.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a lighter meatloaf—just add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk to keep it moist since turkey is leaner.
What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

No problem. Any buttery cracker or even plain breadcrumbs will work. Ritz adds extra richness, but this recipe is forgiving.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

A meat thermometer is your best friend here: Look for an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have one, the loaf should be firm, piping hot, and juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

There’s simply nothing like a slice of homemade meatloaf—with melty cheese, that sweet-glazed top, and tender, savory slices. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or the centerpiece of Sunday supper, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy every bite—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite to pass down!