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+ servings
Sliced meatloaf with a rich, tangy tomato glaze, highlighting the texture of the seasoned meat.
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf combines ground beef, onion, bell pepper, Ritz crackers, and a tangy ketchup glaze for a comforting, home-cooked meal reminiscent of the Cracker Barrel classic.
8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion finely diced
  • 1 cup green bell pepper finely diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 1/2 cup ketchup

Instructions
 

Preparation:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to simplify cleanup.

Combine Ingredients:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, place the ground beef, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, eggs, kosher salt, black pepper, drained diced tomatoes, and crushed Ritz crackers. Using either your hands or a sturdy wooden spoon, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the tenderness of the meatloaf.

Form the Loaf:

  1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a compact, even loaf to ensure consistent cooking. Aim for a uniform thickness throughout.

Initial Baking:

  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld and the meat to begin cooking.

Apply the Glaze:

  1. After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Using a pastry brush, spread the ketchup evenly over the top and sides of the loaf. This glaze will caramelize and add a tangy sweetness during the final bake.

Final Baking:

  1. Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the meat is fully cooked.

Rest and Serve:

  1. Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf. Slice and serve as desired.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with an equal amount of gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients are verified gluten-free, especially the ketchup and diced tomatoes, as some brands may include gluten-containing additives.
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