Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – A Comfort Food Classic with Southern Charm
A Southern-style meatloaf inspired by the Cracker Barrel classic — tender, flavorful, and topped with a sweet tomato glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
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2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1/2 cup finely chopped onion
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1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup ketchup
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the glaze:
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1/2 cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
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In a large bowl, mix beef, crackers, eggs, milk, onion, bell pepper, cheese, ketchup, salt, and pepper until just combined.
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Shape into a loaf and place in pan.
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In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients. Spread half on meatloaf.
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Bake for 45 minutes. Add remaining glaze, bake 15–20 minutes more.
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Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
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Substitute ground turkey or use gluten-free crackers as needed.
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Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months