Description
Make this easy Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf with minimal ingredients for a classic, homestyle comfort meal. Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- ¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or saltine crackers)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, chopped onion, milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cheddar cheese. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing lightly to form an even shape.
- Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Turkey Meatloaf – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Spicy Kick – Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- BBQ Twist – Replace the ketchup topping with BBQ sauce.
- Vegetable Add-Ins – Mix in finely diced bell peppers or carrots for added texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Main Course, dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cracker Barrel meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe, classic meatloaf, homestyle meatloaf, comfort food