Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe – A Homestyle Classic

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf brings all the flavors of a cozy Southern diner right to your kitchen. Tender, juicy, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that tastes just like the restaurant favorite. Perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this meatloaf is a hearty meal everyone will love.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Difficulty Level: Medium

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80% lean)
1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork (optional for extra moisture)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Skillet or frying pan
9×5 inch loaf pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil

How to Make Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, add a teaspoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onions for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, then gently mix everything by hand or with a spatula until evenly blended. Avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Shape and Glaze

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into an even loaf. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half the glaze over the loaf and reserve the rest.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the loaf with foil and bake for 50–60 minutes. Remove foil, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to retain moisture. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for the perfect homestyle meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To Make Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture and shape it in the pan up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
To Freeze: Wrap uncooked or cooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Leftovers: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and brown gravy, steamed green beans or buttered corn, mac and cheese for a Southern twist, or freshly baked dinner rolls and cornbread.

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix – Gently combine ingredients to avoid a tough loaf.
Soak breadcrumbs properly – Ensure they absorb milk for a moist texture.
Use a meat thermometer – Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Customize your glaze – Try BBQ sauce or honey mustard for variation.
Add veggies – Finely diced bell peppers or carrots add flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without pork?
Yes! You can use all ground beef, though a mix of beef and pork keeps it juicier.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, oats, or panko are great alternatives.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Check the center with a thermometer—it should read 160°F (71°C).

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan or bake two loaves side by side.

Why did my meatloaf fall apart?
It may have been underbaked or lacked enough binding like eggs or breadcrumbs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 380
Protein: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Sugars: 7 g
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg
Sodium: 680 mg

Values may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is the definition of comfort food—hearty, savory, and perfectly glazed. Each slice is juicy, tender, and packed with nostalgic flavor that reminds you of a warm diner meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.