There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of a homemade Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. This iconic dish brings together tender ground beef, perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, and a rich, tangy glaze that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

I first discovered this recipe after a road trip stop at Cracker Barrel, where I fell in love with their homestyle cooking. Since then, I've been perfecting this meatloaf to replicate that cozy, nostalgic flavor right in my own kitchen. With its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it's become a staple in our family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Get ready to embrace a dish that combines convenience, flavor, and hearty goodness in every bite. This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, and here’s why it’s a standout.

First off, it’s unbelievably easy to make. Using pantry staples like ketchup, onions, and breadcrumbs, this recipe comes together in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss.

The flavor is unbeatable. The combination of tender ground beef, finely chopped vegetables, and a tangy-sweet glaze captures the essence of Cracker Barrel’s beloved classic.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of mac and cheese, this meatloaf pairs beautifully with just about any comfort food you can think of.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly option that makes plenty of leftovers. One batch can easily feed a hungry family, and the reheated slices taste just as amazing the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect taste and texture.

Ground Beef: Choose a mix of 80/20 for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner ground beef can result in a dryer loaf.
Vegetables: Finely chopped onions and green bell peppers add moisture, sweetness, and a subtle crunch to the loaf. Be sure to dice them finely for even distribution.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian-style breadcrumbs work great as a binder. They help the loaf hold its shape without falling apart.
Eggs: These act as the glue that holds the meatloaf together. Two large eggs should do the trick.
Milk: A splash of milk ensures the meatloaf stays moist. Whole milk is best, but you can substitute with 2% if needed.
Glaze: The iconic tangy glaze combines ketchup, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard. This glossy topping caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding the perfect sweet-savory finish.

You’ll also need a loaf pan to shape and bake your meatloaf. While optional, lining it with parchment paper makes for easy cleanup.

How To Make This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Creating this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf at home is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf.

Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Dice your onions and green bell peppers finely, ensuring they’ll blend seamlessly into the meat mixture.
Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onions, green bell peppers, and a dash of salt and pepper. Use clean hands to mix everything thoroughly, but don’t overwork the meat or it may become dense.
Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s compact. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
Bake and Glaze Again: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. Remove it from the oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender, flavorful slice.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf stores beautifully for future meals.

Refrigerator: Store sliced meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps the meatloaf fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

Protein Swap: Try substituting part of the ground beef with ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Finely chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms can add extra nutrients and a subtle sweetness.
Glaze Alternatives: Swap the classic glaze with BBQ sauce or a tomato-based marinara for a twist on the traditional.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the meat mixture for a little heat.

Whether you stick to the classic or put your own spin on it, this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly request from your family!