Classic Comfort Food

This Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf brings restaurant-style comfort food right to your kitchen. It’s moist, hearty, and packed with savory flavors. With a rich beef base and a sweet-tangy glaze, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf

Unlike many dry or bland meatloaves, this recipe stays tender and juicy thanks to the soaked breadcrumbs and milk. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding just the right amount of sweetness and tang. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a meal that tastes straight out of Cracker Barrel.

Easy to Make, Hard to Resist

You only need simple pantry staples and one bowl to make this dish. From soaking the breadcrumbs to mixing the beef and baking with glaze, each step is quick and easy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday comfort meals!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Soak Breadcrumbs – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment. In a small bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
2. Mix Meatloaf – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix gently with hands until just combined.
3. Shape the Loaf – Form into a loaf shape on the prepared sheet, or press into a loaf pan.
4. Make the Glaze – In a bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar.
5. Bake the Meatloaf – Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
6. Glaze & Finish Baking – Spread glaze evenly on top. Return to oven for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through (internal temp: 160°F / 71°C).
7. Rest & Serve – Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or veggies.

Nutrition Facts (per slice, approx. 1/8 loaf)

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 23g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, but it will be leaner and slightly less juicy. Add a splash of olive oil for moisture.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze meatloaf?

Yes. Freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf (tightly wrapped) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

Why soak the breadcrumbs in milk?

This keeps the meatloaf moist and tender instead of dense.

What side dishes go best with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread are perfect classic pairings.