Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

July 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Cracker Barrel meatloaf! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, seriously. Growing up, my family would always whip this up for Sunday dinners, and I can still smell the savory aroma wafting through the house. It’s a delightful blend of ground beef and pork, all mixed together with breadcrumbs and a touch of ketchup that gives it that classic comfort food vibe. The best part? It’s super easy to make and perfect for those cozy nights when you just want something hearty and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home, too!

cracker barrel meatloaf - detail 1

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs (packed)
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 onion, chopped
1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

How to Prepare Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Alright, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Cracker Barrel meatloaf! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar by the end of it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, hearty dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheating your oven is crucial! Set it to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the meatloaf. This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and develops that beautiful crust on the outside. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Combine the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, grab your ground beef and ground pork and toss them in. Next, add in the breadcrumbs, milk, and the chopped onion. Now, crack those eggs right in there and don’t forget the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce! Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder as well. Mix everything together until it’s just combined—no need to overdo it here! You want a nice, cohesive mixture that holds together well.

Shape the Loaf

Now comes the fun part! Transfer that hearty mixture into a loaf pan. Use your hands to shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s packed but not too tight. If you like that tangy flavor, spread a little extra ketchup on top before popping it in the oven. It adds a lovely glaze that makes it even more irresistible!

Bake and Rest

Time to bake! Slide your meatloaf into the oven and let it cook for about an hour. You’ll know it’s done when a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) in the center. Once it’s out, resist the urge to slice right away. Let it rest for about 10 minutes—this helps keep all those juicy flavors locked in. After that, grab your knife and slice away, enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes of prep time!
Family-friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Comforting and hearty: Perfect for those cozy family dinners or rainy nights.
Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers all week long.
Easy to customize: Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies for a personal twist.
Perfectly paired: It goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes and green beans!
Freezes well: Make ahead and store some in the freezer for a quick dinner later.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Cracker Barrel meatloaf turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to ensure you nail it every time:

Quality Ingredients: Always choose fresh, high-quality ground beef and pork. It really makes a difference in flavor and texture. If you can, go for grass-fed beef—it’s so much tastier!
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly blended. Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf, and nobody wants that!
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to taste the mixture before baking (just be sure to cook a small piece to check the flavor!). You can always adjust the salt and pepper to match your preferences.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This is key! To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through but still juicy, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 160°F (71°C) in the center.
Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! It allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice moist and flavorful.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Want to switch things up? Try adding grated carrots, bell peppers, or even some herbs like parsley for extra flavor and nutrients!
Try Different Toppings: While ketchup is classic, consider trying a barbecue sauce or even a savory glaze on top for a fun twist!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress with your delicious Cracker Barrel meatloaf! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers from your Cracker Barrel meatloaf! I mean, who doesn’t love a good meatloaf sandwich the next day? Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

First, if you have any leftovers, make sure to let the meatloaf cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or you can place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure you label it so you know when it’s time to eat!

If you want to keep it for longer, freezing is a great option! You can freeze the meatloaf whole or slice it up for easy portions. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap, then in foil, or transfer the slices into a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warmed through, or pop a slice in the microwave for a quick fix. You’ll be amazed at how delicious it still tastes!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a slice of this delicious Cracker Barrel meatloaf. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

This hearty meatloaf is packed with protein and is sure to keep you satisfied! Enjoy it knowing you’re indulging in a comforting classic that’s not only delicious but also filling. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the meat?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, you can substitute the ground beef and pork with other meats. Ground turkey or chicken can be fantastic alternatives if you’re after a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats are usually less fatty, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or another fat to keep the meatloaf moist. You can also try a mixture of ground lamb or even a beef and sausage blend for a different flavor profile. The key is to ensure you have enough fat for that juicy consistency!

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! My go-to sides are creamy mashed potatoes and tender green beans—they just pair perfectly with meatloaf! You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try a fresh garden salad or some buttery corn on the cob. And let’s not forget those classic dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious juices! Whatever you choose, your meal will be complete and oh-so-satisfying.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

You bet! Making this meatloaf ahead of time is a brilliant idea, especially for busy weeknights. You can assemble the meatloaf mixture, shape it, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the preheated oven and adjust the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. If you want to get really ahead, you can even bake it and then store the leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later. Just remember, this meatloaf is even better as leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch!

Call to Action

I hope you’re as excited to make this Cracker Barrel meatloaf as I am! If you try it out, please come back and let me know how it turned out for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or if you paired it with a delicious side dish! Don’t forget to rate the recipe below—your feedback means the world to me. And if you have friends or family who love comfort food, share this recipe with them! Together, let’s spread the joy of hearty homemade meals. Happy cooking, everyone!

For more delicious recipes, check out this classic meatloaf recipe or this creamy garlic pasta recipe!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.