Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a favorite for many families. These recipes use ground beef to recreate that taste at home. You can find 11 easy options here. Each one has its own twist but stays simple to prepare. They work well for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Helpful Tips Before You Start
These tips will help you turn simple ground beef into meatloaf that tastes like the Cracker Barrel classic.
Pick the right fat content
Use 80/20 ground beef. It stays moist during baking and gives the same hearty texture as the restaurant version.
Crush your own crackers
Use Ritz crackers instead of plain breadcrumbs. Crush them by hand or in a bag for better flavor and the right soft crumb.
Mix gently
Combine ingredients with your hands just until everything holds together. Overmixing makes the meatloaf tough.
Shape and rest the loaf
Form the mixture into a loaf on a sheet pan rather than in a loaf pan. Let it rest for five minutes after baking so slices hold their shape.
Classic Cracker Barrel-Style Ground Beef Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
This recipe brings the familiar taste of Cracker Barrel right to your kitchen table. The meatloaf stays moist and well seasoned while the mashed potatoes add a creamy side that rounds out the meal. It works well for weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings when you want something filling without much fuss.
The flavors stay simple and balanced. The beef mixture bakes into a firm yet tender loaf topped with a light glaze, and the potatoes turn out smooth enough to soak up any extra sauce from the plate.


Classic Cracker Barrel-Style Ground Beef Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Ingredienser
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, 1/4 cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mix just until the ingredients hold together.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top.
- Bake the meatloaf for 55 to 60 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
- While the meatloaf bakes, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve slices alongside the mashed potatoes.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Large Pot, Potato Masher
Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf with Buttered Corn
This version mixes ground beef with cheddar and bacon for a meatloaf that stays moist inside and develops a savory crust. The buttered corn on the side adds a simple sweet note that balances the rich flavors. It makes a good choice for weeknight dinners when you want a filling meal with little extra effort.
The recipe keeps the texture hearty yet easy to slice. Bacon pieces throughout give smoky bites, while the corn stays bright and coated in butter.


Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf with Buttered Corn
Ingredienser
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups corn kernels
- 3 tbsp butter
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, half the crumbled bacon, half the cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan. Scatter the remaining bacon and cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F and the cheese on top has melted and browned slightly.
- While the meatloaf bakes, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn kernels, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir until the corn is heated through and coated in butter.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve each portion with a scoop of the buttered corn.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Skillet
Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf with Baked Beans
This slow cooker recipe pairs a simple ground beef meatloaf with baked beans for a hearty, low-effort meal. The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties everything together. It suits busy weeknights when you want dinner ready without much hands-on time.
The meatloaf stays moist while the beans absorb the sauce and meat juices. The combination gives a balanced mix of tender texture and savory beans in each bite.


Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf with Baked Beans
Ingredienser
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) baked beans
fremgangsmåte
- Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf that will fit inside your slow cooker.
- Pour the baked beans into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread them into an even layer.
- Place the meatloaf on top of the beans. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup BBQ sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve slices with the beans on the side.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Slow Cooker, Large Mixing Bowl
Air Fryer Mini Meatloaves with Roasted Green Beans
These mini meatloaves bring the classic Cracker Barrel flavor into a quicker format that works well for busy weeknights. The air fryer gives them a lightly crisp outside while keeping the inside moist, and the green beans roast alongside to make a complete meal with minimal cleanup.
The combination delivers familiar savory notes from the beef and crackers with a simple vegetable side that stays crisp-tender. It is a practical choice when you want the comfort of meatloaf without heating up the whole kitchen.


Air Fryer Mini Meatloaves with Roasted Green Beans
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus 2 tablespoons for topping
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
fremgangsmåte
- Mix the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, egg, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until evenly combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf about 3 inches long.
- Place the mini meatloaves in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
- In a separate bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until coated.
- Add the green beans to the air fryer around the meatloaves.
- Cook at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
- Remove the basket and spread the remaining 2 tablespoons of ketchup over the top of each meatloaf.
- Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for 5 more minutes until the meatloaves reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Air Fryer, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Italian-Style Meatloaf with Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This Italian-style meatloaf uses ground beef mixed with classic seasonings and marinara for a familiar yet fresh take on the Cracker Barrel original. The loaf bakes up moist inside with a light tomato glaze on top, while the garlic Parmesan pasta provides a simple, cheesy side that rounds out the meal. It fits well for family dinners when you want something filling without much fuss.
The flavors lean savory and garlicky with a touch of herb and cheese in every bite. The meatloaf stays tender and the pasta keeps a light coating of butter and Parmesan that clings nicely to each strand.


Italian-Style Meatloaf with Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a loaf pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, half the minced garlic, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and 1/4 cup marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper and mix gently until just combined.
- Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the remaining 3/4 cup marinara sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the meatloaf bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the remaining minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained spaghetti and the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan. Toss to coat evenly and season with salt and pepper.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve portions alongside the garlic Parmesan pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using.
merknader
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Large Pot, Large Skillet
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Meatloaf with Creamy Coleslaw
This meatloaf packs ground beef with sharp cheddar and fresh jalapeños for a bold, spicy flavor. The creamy coleslaw on the side adds cool crunch that balances the heat. It works well for weeknight meals when you want something hearty yet simple.
The texture stays moist inside with a lightly browned crust. The slaw stays crisp and refreshing next to the warm slices.


Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Meatloaf with Creamy Coleslaw
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped jalapeños, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan. Bake for 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
- While the meatloaf bakes, make the coleslaw. In a separate bowl, stir together the shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix well. Chill the slaw until ready to serve.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking. Slice and serve with the coleslaw on the side.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Oven
Mushroom and Onion Meatloaf with Brown Gravy and Rice
This meatloaf mixes ground beef with mushrooms and onions for steady savory flavor in every slice. Brown gravy poured over the top and a side of rice turn it into a full meal that feels familiar and satisfying.
It suits busy weeknights or casual family dinners when you want something hearty but straightforward. The vegetables keep the loaf moist while the gravy brings a simple richness that pairs well with plain rice.


Mushroom and Onion Meatloaf with Brown Gravy and Rice
Ingredienser
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, half the diced onion, half the sliced mushrooms, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
- While the meatloaf bakes, cook the rice. Combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let it rest covered.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the remaining onion and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for one minute. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and simmer until the gravy thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with the gravy spooned over the top and rice on the side.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Dish, Skillet, Saucepan
Sweet Glazed Pineapple Meatloaf with Coconut Rice
This meatloaf pairs ground beef with a sticky pineapple glaze that caramelizes during baking. The coconut rice serves as a creamy base that balances the sweet and savory flavors on the plate. It suits weeknight meals when you want something familiar yet a bit different from plain meatloaf.
The finished dish gives tender slices of beef with a glossy top and fluffy rice that absorbs the glaze. Families enjoy it for its mix of sweet and hearty notes without extra fuss.


Sweet Glazed Pineapple Meatloaf with Coconut Rice
Ingredienser
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- Pinch of salt
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just blended, then shape into a loaf and place on the prepared sheet.
- Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes. While it bakes, stir together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ketchup in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven for 15 more minutes until the glaze sets and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, and pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve over the coconut rice.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Saucepan
Smoky Chipotle Meatloaf with Black Bean Salad
This smoky chipotle meatloaf uses ground beef and a few pantry spices to create a bold main dish. The black bean salad on the side keeps things fresh and balanced without extra cooking.
It works well for weeknight meals or casual dinners with friends. The meatloaf stays moist inside with a lightly spiced crust, while the salad brings bright flavor and crunch.


Smoky Chipotle Meatloaf with Black Bean Salad
Ingredienser
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced chipotle peppers, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix with clean hands until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.
- While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the salad. In a medium bowl, stir together the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and mix well.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve slices with a generous scoop of the black bean salad on the side.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large mixing bowl, loaf pan, medium bowl
Turkey-Free Herb-Crusted Meatloaf with Buttermilk Biscuits
This beef meatloaf gets a boost from a simple herb coating that adds savory flavor without extra steps. The buttermilk biscuits bake alongside it for a complete meal that feels hearty and homey on busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The crust keeps the meatloaf moist inside while the biscuits turn out light and flaky. It works well when you want a classic meatloaf dinner with a fresh twist.


Turkey-Free Herb-Crusted Meatloaf with Buttermilk Biscuits
Ingredienser
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, 1 tablespoon of the parsley, 1/2 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Press the meat mixture into the loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining parsley, thyme, and rosemary evenly over the top to form the herb crust.
- Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
- While the meatloaf bakes, make the biscuits. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the buttermilk until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut into 4 biscuits.
- Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them during the last 15 minutes of the meatloaf cooking time until golden on top.
- Remove both from the oven. Let the meatloaf rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the slices with the warm biscuits.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Baking Sheet
Loaded Veggie Meatloaf with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
This meatloaf packs plenty of vegetables into a classic ground beef base for a filling dinner. The sweet potato mash adds a creamy contrast that balances the savory loaf. It works well for weeknight meals when you want something hearty without much fuss.
The flavors stay mild and comforting. Tender bits of carrot, zucchini, and pepper give the meatloaf extra moisture and a bit of natural sweetness.


Loaded Veggie Meatloaf with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
fremgangsmåte
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan. Bake for 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
- While the meatloaf bakes, place the sweet potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes until tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with the mashed sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with parsley if using.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large mixing bowl, loaf pan, saucepan, potato masher

