We whipped up Copycat Cracker Barrel dinner together tonight and it was so good we couldn't stop munching. My husband ate more than his share!

Cooktop Cove: We whipped up Copycat Cracker Barrel dinner together tonight and it was so good we couldn't stop munching. My husband ate more than his share!

By Morgan Reed

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is one of those comforting dishes that bring back memories of family dinners and hearty, home-cooked meals. Its delectable mix of savory beef with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables and seasoning makes it a beloved classic. Recreating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy this comfort food anytime you crave it, and it also gives you the opportunity to tweak it to your personal taste preferences while preserving its nostalgic essence.

This meatloaf pairs exceptionally well with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn on the cob. For a lighter approach, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to add a dollop of tangy ketchup or a flavorful gravy on top to enhance the depths of its taste.

Cracker Barrel Copycat Meatloaf

Servings: 8

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup ketchup

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3. Add the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk to the mixture. Blend everything together until uniform but be careful not to over-mix.

4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan.

5. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

7. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations & Tips

For a slightly healthier version, you could substitute ground turkey for the beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, try incorporating a bit of smoked paprika or grated smoked gouda instead of cheddar cheese. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different types of crackers or breadcrumbs for diverse textures and tastes.