There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting taste of Cracker Barrel's meatloaf, a dish that's been a family favorite for generations. Imagine biting into a slice that's perfectly seasoned, tender, and coated with a rich tomato glaze—it's the ultimate comfort food.

I discovered this copycat recipe during a quest to recreate restaurant-quality dishes at home. This version captures all the flavors you love about Cracker Barrel's iconic meatloaf, and the best part? It's surprisingly simple to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday meals. Let's dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Get ready to bring the taste of Cracker Barrel right into your kitchen. This meatloaf recipe has everything you could want in a hearty, home-cooked meal.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. The recipe requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No complicated techniques—just good, honest cooking.

Second, it's bursting with flavor. A perfect balance of savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, tangy ketchup, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar makes every bite unforgettable.

Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or hosting a dinner party, this meatloaf is bound to be a hit. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Finally, this recipe is meal-prep friendly. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cracker Barrel meatloaf lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what you’ll need to make this dish shine:

Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf. Use an 80/20 mix for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian-style breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf while keeping it moist.
Onions and Bell Peppers: These finely chopped veggies add a hint of sweetness and texture. Use red or green bell peppers for authenticity.
Milk and Eggs: These add moisture and help hold the meatloaf together.
Ketchup: Both mixed into the meatloaf and spread on top for that signature tangy glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Mustard: A touch of mustard in the glaze gives it a tangy kick.

Equipment

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and a whisk for the glaze. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.

How To Make This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Creating this mouthwatering meatloaf is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 finely chopped onion, ½ cup of diced bell pepper, 2 beaten eggs, ¾ cup of milk, ½ cup of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press it down gently to ensure an even shape.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the meatloaf for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is just as delicious the next day, making it a great candidate for leftovers.

Refrigerate: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium power until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This copycat recipe is versatile, so feel free to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetable Boost: Add shredded carrots or zucchini to the mix for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or chili powder for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
Cheesy Twist: Add a layer of shredded cheese on top of the glaze before baking for a gooey finish.

Experiment with these variations, and you might just stumble upon your new favorite version of this classic dish!