Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf
A comforting, savory meatloaf recipe reminiscent of a southern classic, featuring tender lean ground beef and a tangy-sweet glaze. Perfect for family dinners or hearty leftovers.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1.5 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 48 crackers)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper (if using), Ritz crackers, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze
- Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf
- Bake for 45 minutes
- Remove from oven and spread remaining glaze over the top
- Return to oven and bake 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing
Notes
Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender
Glaze is applied halfway through baking for optimal flavor balance
Optional bell pepper can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile
Glaze is applied halfway through baking for optimal flavor balance
Optional bell pepper can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile