The Best Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe brings the comforting, homestyle taste of the restaurant right to your kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how it fills your home with a delicious aroma that reminds you of Sunday dinners. The secret blend of spices gives it a flavor that’s just right, and the tangy glaze on top makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family meals or potlucks, and leftovers are just as good the next day. Once you try it, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in no time.
Recipe
Craving a comforting, homey dish that hits all the right notes? This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe brings you the classic flavors you love, just like the one served at the iconic restaurant. This hearty meatloaf is packed with savory goodness and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates it to perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to satisfy every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup crushed saltines (about 20 crackers)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltines, beaten egg, chopped onion, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Verify the meatloaf is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Equipment:
- Loaf pan or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Serves 6
Nutrition
The following table provides the nutritional information per serving for the Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe.
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 | 18 | 20 | 25 | 800 | 5 |
What To Serve With It
When I make Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf, I love pairing it with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans. Southern-inspired options, such as cornbread or collard greens, also add a comforting, homestyle vibe to the meal. These combos always make my dinner feel extra special and satisfying.
Classic Side Dishes
Since meatloaf’s such a hearty, comforting dish, I love pairing it with sides that balance its richness while keeping things cozy. Mashed potatoes are my go-to—they’re creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up the meatloaf’s savory juices. I also enjoy a tangy cole slaw to add a fresh crunch that cuts through the richness. It’s a classic combo that never fails to hit the spot. Sometimes, I’ll roast some simple green beans or steam broccoli for a touch of brightness. These sides keep the meal comforting while making it feel just a little more complete and balanced.
Southern-Inspired Pairings
While I adore classic sides with meatloaf, there’s something special about going full Southern-inspired with pairings that feel like a warm hug. I love serving Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf with golden, crumbly cornbread muffins that soak up the gravy just right. A big scoop of collard greens, slow-cooked with smoky ham hocks, adds that Southern comfort touch. For me, it’s all about balance—the meatloaf’s richness pairs perfectly with the greens’ slight bitterness. Throw in a creamy potato dish or a tangy slaw, and you’ve got a meal that feels like Sunday dinner, no matter the day of the week.
