Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – A Comfort Food Classic Made Better

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – A Comfort Food Classic Made Better

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This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is moist, cheesy, and loaded with flavor — a cozy family dinner recipe that will steal the show!

A Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Worth Remembering
If you’ve ever walked out of a Cracker Barrel wishing you could replicate that rich, cheesy meatloaf at home, this recipe is for you. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary weeknights into warm, nostalgic moments. Made with crushed Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar, and a sweet tomato glaze, this Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf is tender, moist, and full of flavor in every slice.

Looking for more hearty dinner inspiration? You’ll also love this comforting Loaded Potato Meatloaf — a fan-favorite mash-up of cheesy mashed potatoes and juicy beef.

This recipe yields a big batch — perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:
2 large eggs

⅔ cup milk

32 Ritz crackers, crushed

½ cup chopped onion

4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon salt

1 ½ lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)

For the Glaze:
½ cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon yellow mustard (or Dijon)

 Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.

Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Stir in the crushed crackers, onion, cheddar cheese, and salt.

Add the ground beef and mix gently until combined — do not overmix.

Step 3: Shape & Bake
Press the meatloaf mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.

Step 5: Glaze & Finish
After 30 minutes, remove meatloaf from the oven and spread glaze over the top.

Return to oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 6: Rest & Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set and retain moisture.

Tips & Variations
Make It Spicier: Add 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce or hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.

Swap Cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a cheesy twist.

No Ritz? Substitute with crushed saltines or panko breadcrumbs.

Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze individual slices for easy reheating.

For more meatloaf inspiration, check out the Food Network’s Best Meatloaf Recipes or explore AllRecipes’ collection.

 Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap tightly in foil and store up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

 Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield: 6–8 servings

 Tools Used

Mixing bowl

Loaf pan or baking sheet

Whisk & spoon

Small bowl for glaze

Meat thermometer (optional)

 Image Alt Text Suggestions

Sliced Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf glazed with ketchup in a baking dish

Juicy meatloaf with crispy edges and cheesy center

Classic American meatloaf in tomato glaze, ready to serve

 Join the Conversation!

Did this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf become your new family favorite?
Drop us a comment, ⭐ leave a rating, or share your dish on Instagram using #TinsufDinners!

 Discover More Comfort Favorites

Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Baked Eggs with Cheese Recipe

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

 Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is proof that humble ingredients can create something truly memorable. With its cheesy, cracker-filled interior and glossy tomato glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that turns simple dinners into comfort-filled celebrations. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead, this meatloaf will never disappoint.

For more warm, nostalgic recipes like this, browse Tinsuf.com — your home for hearty, family-loved meals.