Meatloaf like Cracker Barrel’s”
This meatloaf gets its tender texture from crushed Ritz crackers and is finished with a sweet and tangy glaze, capturing the flavors of a beloved comfort food classic.
Cracker Barrel–Style Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients (Meatloaf)
- Eggs, room temp – 2
- Whole milk – 2/3 cup
- Ritz crackers, crushed – 25
- Large onion, diced – 1
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – 1/2 cup
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Pepper – 1/4 tsp
- Ground beef – 1 1/2 lbs
Ingredients (Topping Glaze)
- Ketchup – 1/2 cup
- Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
- Mustard – 1 tsp
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Egg Base
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, beat 2 eggs. Stir in 2/3 cup milk and 25 crushed Ritz crackers.
Step 2: Add Fillers
Mix in the diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Step 3: Combine with Meat
Add 1 1/2 lbs ground beef to the mixture. Gently mix with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Bake (Initial)
Spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Shape the meat mixture into the dish. Bake 45 minutes or until mostly cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp mustard to make the glaze.
Step 6: First Glaze
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf after the initial 45 minutes. Return to the oven and bake 15 minutes.Step 7: Second Glaze & Finish
Spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf. Bake a final 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
