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Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe is a delicious, homestyle dish featuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf topped with a tangy, slightly sweet glaze. Packed with sautéed vegetables, cheese, and classic seasonings, this comfort food favorite is perfect for family dinners and tastes just like the restaurant version!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard


Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper until softened (4-5 minutes).
  • Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed vegetables, eggs, crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

4. Shape the Meatloaf:

  • Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet, or press it into a loaf pan.

5. Make the Glaze:

  • In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.

6. Bake the Meatloaf:

  • Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is finished, spread the remaining glaze on top and continue baking.

7. Serve:

  • Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.


Notes

  • If using a loaf pan, consider placing it on a baking sheet to catch any drippings.
  • You can swap out Ritz crackers for breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers if needed.
  • Leftover meatloaf makes great sandwiches the next day!