It’s that glorious moment when the aroma of a savory meatloaf wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. This Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its rich flavors and tender texture, promising to transport you back to family dinners and cozy gatherings. classic pot roast recipe Imagine slicing into a perfectly cooked loaf, revealing layers of juicy goodness, all while your loved ones gather around the table in eager anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe.
As you prepare this delightful dish, memories of laughter and shared stories flood your mind. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual Sunday dinner, this meatloaf is the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. zesty chicken thighs recipe With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, making it an instant favorite for both family and friends alike. one pot chicken and rice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table
- Its inviting appearance will make it the star of your dinner spread, and it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or sauces
I once made this meatloaf for my family gathering, and everyone raved about how delicious it was. The leftovers vanished before I could even grab a second slice!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and texture without too much grease.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor; they help bind the meatloaf together.
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Eggs: Fresh eggs act as a binder; they add moisture and richness to the dish.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness and depth; sautéing it first enhances its flavor.
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Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder adds an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
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Ketchup: Ketchup provides moisture and sweetness; use it generously on top for a beautiful glaze.
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Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce gives an umami kick; it’s one secret ingredient you don’t want to skip!
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Salt & Pepper: Season well to enhance all the flavors—do not shy away from these essentials!
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Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. satisfying meatball stroganoff.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to go!
Sauté Onions for Flavor: In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and sauté finely chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do.
Mix It Up!: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until well combined but avoid overmixing!
Shape Your Loaf: Transfer the mixture onto a lined baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form—this is where you can get creative! Aim for about 1½ inches thick for even cooking.
Add Toppings for Extra Flavor: Smother the top with more ketchup (it’s like giving your meatloaf a tasty little jacket) before popping it into the oven.
Bake Until Perfect!: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The meatloaf should be golden brown on top—delicious!
Serve warm with mashed potatoes or green beans, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds! Enjoy every juicy slice—you deserve it!
You Must Know
- The Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe brings comfort and nostalgia to your table
- This dish combines savory flavors with a tender texture that melts in your mouth, reminding you of family dinners and cozy gatherings
- Perfect for meal prep or special occasions!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatloaf ingredients in a bowl, then shape it into a loaf. Bake at 350°F for about an hour, ensuring it’s juicy and perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers for extra flavor. You can even experiment with different sauces on top!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let meatloaf sit after baking before slicing
- Avoid overmixing to keep it tender
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 160°F for ground beef
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a family gathering where my cousin declared it the “best meatloaf ever.” The laughter that followed made my heart full!

FAQ
What can I serve with Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes and green beans are classic sides that pair wonderfully with meatloaf. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes recipe.
Can I freeze leftovers of Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months for easy meals later.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Check with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F when fully cooked.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, a dish that promises to evoke fond memories of family dinners. This savory meatloaf features a tender texture and a rich blend of spices, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. With easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Top with additional ketchup for a glaze and bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg





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