Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is classic comfort food made with ground beef, onions, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, Ritz crackers and a sweet, savory glaze on top!

Meatloaf is such a comforting classic, and this recipe is made even better with tasty veggies and cheese inside. It’s the most delicious way to prepare this meatloaf!

You’re going to love this easy Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe: One of the reasons meatloaf remains so popular is because of how easy it is to make! You simply mix the meat with seasonings, shape, and bake!

Ingredients :

2 pounds lean ground beef

1 1/2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers (48 crackers total)

1 small finely diced onion

1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (optional)

1/2 cup milk

4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese

3 eggs

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. salt

For the topping:
1/2 to 3/4 cup ketchup

2 tbsp. brown sugar

1 tsp. mustard

Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (176 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Place to the side. This will be used later as the topping.

In a large bowl, add 1 ½ lbs. ground beef, ½ cup of finely diced yellow onion, ¼ cup of finely diced green bell pepper, 3 eggs, 4 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of whole milk, 2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers, and 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, or to taste. Mix well just to combine. Do not over mix.

Step 3: Form into a loaf and place inside a baking pan or baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (176°C) for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the topping over the meatloaf.

Step 4: Return your meatloaf to the oven and Bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes or until the center is 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Remove from the oven, and let it cool for 15 minutes before serving. Slice into even pieces.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:
My friends often complain that their meatloaf is too dry. This is often caused by using leaner meat. 80% lean ground beef is the best ratio for a moist, juicy meatloaf that cooks to perfection. And, you can also use half ground beef and half ground pork to enhance the flavor and texture of your loaf. Sausage is another excellent option.