- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Servings: 6–8 servings
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for glaze
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Finely dice the onion and green bell pepper. Smaller pieces blend more evenly into the meatloaf and help create a tender texture.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Green pepper
- Eggs
- Crushed crackers
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix until everything is fully combined. Avoid overmixing because it can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it evenly. If using a baking sheet, form the meat into a loaf shape about 2 inches high.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return it to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the slices intact.
Cooking Intensity Level
| Step | Intensity |
|---|---|
| Chopping vegetables | Low |
| Mixing ingredients | Low |
| Shaping loaf | Low |
| Preparing glaze | Very Low |
| Baking | Medium |
| Resting and slicing | Very Low |
This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires only basic cooking skills.
Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Don’t Overmix
Overworking the meat mixture can create a dense texture. Mix only until combined.
Use Lean Ground Beef
An 80/20 or 85/15 blend works best because it provides flavor while still keeping the loaf moist.
Add Cheese for Richness
Sharp cheddar cheese melts into the meatloaf and gives it that signature Cracker Barrel flavor.
Let It Rest
Resting the meatloaf after baking helps keep it juicy and easier to slice.
Double the Recipe
This meatloaf freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
What to Serve with Meatloaf
This comforting dish pairs well with classic Southern-style sides.
Popular Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese
- Green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Buttered corn
- Dinner rolls
- Coleslaw
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it uncooked. Add the glaze just before baking.
This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals.
Variations
Turkey Meatloaf
Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Spicy Version
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Bacon-Topped Meatloaf
Lay strips of bacon over the top before baking for smoky flavor.
BBQ Glaze
Swap ketchup glaze for your favorite barbecue sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Too Many Breadcrumbs
Too many fillers can make the meatloaf dry and crumbly.
Skipping the Rest Time
Cutting too soon can cause the juices to run out.
Cooking at High Heat
A moderate oven temperature keeps the meatloaf tender.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.