Tender, juicy, and topped with that sweet tomato glaze—this tastes just like the classic you order at the restaurant.

🥩 Ingredients

Meatloaf

• 1½ lb (680 g) ground beef (80/20 works best)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers (or buttery crackers)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika

Glaze

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

• Heat oven to 175°C / 350°F
• Lightly grease a loaf pan

Step 2: Make the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs + milk.
2. Stir in crushed crackers; let soak 1 minute.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika.
4. Gently fold in ground beef just until combined (don’t overmix).

Step 3: First Bake

1. Transfer mixture to loaf pan; shape lightly.
2. Bake 30 minutes, uncovered.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

1. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
2. Remove meatloaf and spread glaze evenly on top.

Step 5: Finish Baking

• Return to oven for 25–30 minutes
• Internal temperature should reach 71°C / 160°F

Step 6: Rest & Slice

• Let rest 10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts and juicy texture.

⭐ Pro Tips (Restaurant-Style)

• Ritz crackers give the signature soft texture
• Add salt near the end if needed—hammy crackers vary
• Double the glaze if you love a sweet top
• Resting is key for neat slices

🍽️ Serve With

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Green beans or fried okra
• Warm biscuits or cornbread

Want the exact Cracker Barrel sides or an air fryer version? Just say the word 👍