Ingredients

For the meatloaf

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper
• 3/4 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard

For the glaze

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Finely dice the onion and green bell pepper.
3. Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, crushed crackers, eggs, ketchup, black pepper, and mustard.
5. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until everything is evenly combined. Do not overmix.
6. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf in a baking dish.
7. Bake for about 45–60 minutes, depending on the thickness of the loaf.
8. Meanwhile, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard to make the glaze.
9. Spread the glaze generously over the meatloaf.
10. Continue baking until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
11. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Method

This meatloaf is made by combining seasoned ground beef with crushed crackers, eggs, onions, and green pepper. The mixture is shaped into a loaf and baked until tender and fully cooked. A sweet and tangy ketchup-brown-sugar glaze is added on top, creating the classic caramelized finish.

Benefits

• Protein: Ground beef and eggs provide protein needed for muscle maintenance.
• Vegetables: Onion and green pepper add flavor along with vitamins and antioxidants.
• Energy: The beef and crackers provide carbohydrates, protein, and fats for a satisfying meal.
• Family-friendly: It is easy to prepare and can be served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a salad.
• Make-ahead friendly: Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for another meal.

Nutrition

Approximate nutrition per serving will vary depending on the ground beef and exact portion size.

• Calories: approximately 400–500
• Protein: approximately 25–30 g
• Carbohydrates: approximately 15–25 g
• Fat: approximately 25–32 g
• Fiber: approximately 1–2 g
• Sodium: approximately 500–800 mg

For a lighter version, use lean ground beef, reduce the brown sugar and ketchup, and replace some of the crackers with finely chopped vegetables.

History

Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food with roots in European meat dishes. It became particularly popular in the United States because ground meat was economical and could be stretched with ingredients such as breadcrumbs, crackers, eggs, onions, and vegetables.

The Cracker Barrel–style version is known for its tender texture, finely chopped vegetables, and sweet tomato-based glaze. It fits naturally into the traditional American home-cooking style associated with Southern comfort food.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel–style meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful family meal made with simple ingredients. The combination of ground beef, Ritz crackers, vegetables, and eggs creates a moist and tender loaf, while the sweet ketchup glaze adds a delicious finishing touch. Serve it with mashed potatoes and vegetables for a classic comfort-food dinner.