Craving a cozy, homestyle dinner just like the ones served at Cracker Barrel? This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf delivers the same tender, savory flavors you love—right from your own oven. It’s a hearty and comforting classic that combines ground beef with buttery Ritz crackers, shredded cheese, and a tangy tomato glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.

Perfect for Sunday suppers or weeknight dinners when you’re looking to bring a little southern charm to the table. The texture is moist and flavorful, and the ketchup topping adds just the right amount of sweet and tangy finish. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered green beans for a complete Cracker Barrel-style feast.

What Kind of Crackers Work Best?

Ritz crackers are the classic choice for this meatloaf, providing a buttery crunch and the perfect binding texture. If you’re out of Ritz, buttery round crackers or saltines make a fine substitute. For a slightly different flavor profile, try crushed cornflakes or even seasoned breadcrumbs.

Ingredients for the Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the topping:

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard

How To Make the Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, shredded cheese, onion, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined.

Step 3: Form the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Press down lightly to help it hold together.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store This Homestyle Meatloaf

Serve thick slices of this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, skillet-fried corn, or green beans for a comforting, well-rounded meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be made into hearty meatloaf sandwiches.

To store, wrap cooled leftovers in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well and gives you a slightly lighter version. Just be sure to monitor the moisture so it doesn’t dry out.

Do I have to use cheddar cheese?

Cheddar adds a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend for variety.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Prepare and shape the loaf, then cover and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can shape the meat mixture into a free-form loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just be sure to monitor the baking time.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use two loaf pans and increase the baking time slightly. It’s a great idea for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If this meatloaf hit the spot, you’ll love diving into these cozy, crave-worthy meals:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so it’s just a click away when you’re ready to cook.

And drop a comment below! Did you stick to the traditional cheddar or go for a cheesy remix? Try a spicy topping or keep it sweet?

I love seeing your twists and hearing your stories. Ask questions too—let’s perfect this together.

For daily recipe inspiration, follow along on Pinterest: Nina Dishes.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A moist and savory meatloaf packed with cheddar cheese, buttery Ritz crackers, and a tangy-sweet ketchup glaze—just like the Cracker Barrel classic. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family-style Sunday meals.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, crushed crackers, cheddar cheese, onion, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined.

3. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the pan.

4. In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the topping. Spread over the loaf.

5. Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.