Cracker Barrel Copycat Meatloaf

  Cracker Barrel Copycat Meatloaf

Ingredients

Meatloaf

2 pounds lean ground beef

1 small onion, finely diced

½ cup finely diced bell pepper (optional, but traditional)

1½ sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 48 crackers)

4 large eggs

¾ cup milk

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but very common)

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp paprika

Glaze

¾ cup ketchup

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp yellow mustard

Instructions

Preheat oven

Set oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a large baking dish or loaf pan.

Mix meatloaf

In a large bowl, add ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, eggs, milk, cheese, and seasonings.

Mix gently with hands until just combined (do not overmix).

Shape

Form into two loaves (best for even cooking) or one large loaf.

Place into baking dish.

Make glaze

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.

Top & bake

Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf.

Bake 45 minutes.

Final glaze

Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze on top.

Return to oven and bake 15–20 minutes more, until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

Rest & serve

Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.