Description
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat recipe features a moist and flavorful meatloaf made with lean ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers for texture. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, this comforting classic is perfect for a family dinner or weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers (60–64 crackers), crushed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prep & Mix The Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely diced yellow onion, green bell pepper, eggs, grated sharp cheddar cheese, whole milk, crushed Ritz crackers, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly mix all ingredients evenly.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C/Gas Mark 4) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth. Set aside for later application.
- Crush the Ritz Crackers: Place the Ritz crackers into a plastic storage bag, cover with a kitchen towel, and crush with a meat mallet or heavy object until mostly fine with some texture remaining. This adds moisture and binding to the meatloaf.
- Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it is compact and even for uniform cooking.
- Bake the Meatloaf (First Stage): Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes uncovered to start the cooking process.
- Apply Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the prepared glaze over the top of the loaf to add sweet tangy flavor and caramelization.
- Bake the Meatloaf (Second Stage): Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (72°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Serve: Slice into portions and serve warm as a comforting main dish, perfect with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Let eggs come to room temperature before mixing for better binding.
- Use a kitchen thermometer to check doneness accurately.
- Crushing the Ritz crackers by hand ensures varied texture in the meatloaf mixture.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain moisture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cracker Barrel meatloaf copycat, meatloaf recipe, easy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, comfort food, dinner recipe
