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

Description

Enjoy a homestyle Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf that’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious ketchup-brown sugar glaze. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and a sweet-savory glaze, this comforting main course is the perfect family favorite and easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Meatloaf:

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

For the Topping:

1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. mustard

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s fully heated by the time your meatloaf is assembled.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the eggs well. Add in the milk and crushed Ritz crackers, stirring together until fully combined.
Add Vegetables and Cheese: Mix the diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese into your egg mixture, ensuring the onion and cheese are evenly distributed.
Combine Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, gently mix until all ingredients are well combined—take care not to overmix for a tender meatloaf.
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease or spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Mold and Bake Initial: Shape the meatloaf mixture into the baking dish, pressing it lightly to form an even loaf. Bake for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is nearly cooked through.
Prepare Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
Add First Layer of Glaze: After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread half of the ketchup mixture over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Add Second Layer of Glaze: Spread the remaining glaze evenly over the meatloaf and bake for a further 15 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps with clean, even pieces.
You can substitute cheddar with another cheese or leave it out for a lighter loaf.
Ritz crackers can be swapped for other buttery crackers or breadcrumbs as needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/5 of loaf
Calories: 530
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 170mg