Few meals bring comfort quite like a classic meatloaf, and this Cracker Barrel-Style version delivers all the cozy flavors you love. Tender, juicy ground beef is mixed with simple pantry ingredients and baked to perfection, then topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that feels nostalgic, hearty, and guaranteed to please the whole family.
Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 recommended) | 2 lbs |
| Breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines) | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Medium onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme (optional) | 1 tsp |
For the Glaze:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard) | 1 tbsp |
| Apple cider vinegar (optional) | 1 tbsp |
How To Make Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf:
Preheat Oven & Soak Breadcrumbs: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine milk and breadcrumbs in a small bowl and let them soak for 5 minutes.
Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme (if using). Mix gently with your hands until combined—don’t overwork it or the meatloaf can get tough.
Shape & Prepare Glaze: Shape the mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet, or press it into a greased loaf pan. In another bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar (if using) to create the glaze.
Bake & Glaze: Bake meatloaf for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spread glaze evenly on top, then return to bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest & Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps it stay moist and flavorful.